Austin, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Ethan Nieneker, 32, faces additional charges after a shooting incident at a Target parking lot in Austin that claimed three lives. The new charges include attempted murder and aggravated robbery, raising his total to eight. The community is left shocked and grappling with the tragic aftermath as discussions on public safety and mental health resources emerge.
Austin, Texas – Ethan Nieneker, a 32-year-old man, has faced additional charges following a tragic incident at a Target store parking lot on Research Boulevard that resulted in the deaths of three individuals on August 11. The new charges include attempted murder, aggravated robbery, and several counts of aggravated assault. Nieneker now faces a total of eight charges, with a combined bond amount of $3.4 million.
The initial charges against Nieneker included capital murder by terror threat, capital murder of a person under 10 years of age, and first-degree murder. The victims of this incident were identified as Rosa Machuca, a 24-year-old Target employee; Adam Chow, 65; and Chow’s four-year-old granddaughter, Astrid Fung. Machuca succumbed to her injuries shortly after the shooting at a local hospital, while both Chow and Fung were pronounced dead at the scene. Chow’s wife sustained minor injuries during the ordeal.
According to reports, the attack occurred when Nieneker allegedly “randomly attacked” Machuca as she collected shopping carts. He subsequently shot Chow while he was seated in his SUV, hitting his granddaughter in the back seat. This sudden act of violence has shocked the Austin community and has prompted an ongoing police investigation to gather more evidence and identify additional witnesses, including a driver of a white minivan involved in a crash during the events.
After the shootings, Nieneker fled the scene in a stolen gray Toyota 4-Runner. He then assaulted a water truck driver and triggered a multi-vehicle collision on the MoPac Expressway. Following these incidents, he attacked a driver of another vehicle and made an unsuccessful attempt to break into a Waymo self-driving car. Law enforcement later captured Nieneker on Montclaire Street around 3:06 PM, using a Taser to take him into custody. His behavior during his arrest raised concerns, as he claimed to be Jesus and said his actions were intended to “set everyone free.”
A mental health evaluation has been requested for Nieneker due to his history of mental illness, which may have contributed to his alleged actions. Additionally, his criminal record includes multiple arrests dating back to 2011 for offenses related to marijuana possession, driving while intoxicated (DWI), and family violence assault.
Austin officials have responded to this tragedy with expressions of condolence for the victims’ families and condemnation of the violence that has affected the community. Mayor Kirk Watson was among the city leaders who expressed the need for unity and healing following this incident.
This devastating event has left a mark on Austin, prompting discussions about public safety and mental health resources. As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of a senseless act of violence.
FAQ
What charges has Ethan Nieneker faced?
Ethan Nieneker has faced eight charges, including capital murder, attempted murder, aggravated robbery, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. His bond is set at $3.4 million.
Who were the victims of the shooting?
The victims included Rosa Machuca, a 24-year-old Target employee, and Adam Chow, 65, along with Chow’s granddaughter Astrid Fung, age 4. Chow and Fung died at the scene, while Machuca died in the hospital.
What happened after the shooting incident?
After the shooting, Nieneker fled in a stolen vehicle, assaulted a water truck driver, caused a multi-vehicle crash, and was later apprehended by police. He claimed to be Jesus during his arrest.
What is known about Nieneker’s background?
Ethan Nieneker, aged 32, has a history of mental illness and a criminal record that includes previous arrests for offenses such as marijuana possession and DWI.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | August 11 |
| Location | Target store parking lot, Research Boulevard, Austin, Texas |
| Suspect | Ethan Nieneker, 32 |
| Victims | Rosa Machuca (24), Adam Chow (65), Astrid Fung (4) |
| Total Charges | Eight charges including murder and assault |
| Bond Amount | $3.4 million |
| Arrest Time | 3:06 PM on August 11 |
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Additional Resources
- KVUE
- Wikipedia: Ethan Nieneker
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google Search: Austin Target shooting
- FOX 7 Austin
- Google Scholar: Austin Target shooting
- Austin American-Statesman
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Target shooting
- AP News
- Google News: Austin Target shooting
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
