East Austin, August 24, 2025
News Summary
East Austin came together to pay tribute to Felicia Washington and Captain Austin Smith during a community vigil. Family and friends gathered to remember their lives and support the grieving families. With investigations ongoing, community solidarity has been evident, emphasizing the impact of these losses.
East Austin Hosts Vigil to Remember Victims of Tragic Incident
East Austin became a gathering place for family and friends on Saturday as they came together to honor three individuals who died earlier in the week at a South Austin residence. The emotional community vigil was held in remembrance of these lives lost, who were identified as Felicia Washington and Captain Austin Smith, with the third individual yet to be publicly identified.
The events that led to this somber gathering began on Tuesday night when the Austin Police Department received a call from a family member just before 11 p.m. The authorities responded to 2303 Cedrick Cove, where they found the bodies inside the home. While an investigation is ongoing, police officials have indicated that they do not suspect foul play, and the exact cause of death remains unclear.
Community Impact
Felicia Washington has been remembered fondly by her family and friends as a dedicated community leader. Her loved ones have shared their memories, emphasizing her kindness and the joy she brought into the lives of others. In light of her passing, the Washington family is actively raising funds for funeral costs, having established a GoFundMe page for those wishing to contribute.
Captain Austin Smith, another victim, was a notable figure in the community. He was an accomplished Eagle Scout and played an active role in the JROTC program at James Bowie High School. Demonstrating an early commitment to service, he graduated high school one week early to enlist in Marine Corps boot camp. Smith later attended Texas A&M University, where he further engaged in military training within the Corps of Cadets.
Upon graduating from Texas A&M, Smith was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the Marine Corps, where he eventually rose to the rank of Captain. He is survived by his parents, William and Diana Smith, his sister Lauren Pena, and brother-in-law Jonathan Pena. In lieu of flowers, his family has requested that donations be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, with memorial services being planned privately.
Collective Grief
The deaths of these individuals have profoundly affected their families and the East Austin community. People have expressed their sorrow and condolences as they come together to remember the vibrancy and contributions of those who have passed. The shared grief has highlighted the sense of solidarity within the community, as residents aim to support one another during this difficult time.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, the Austin Police Department is working diligently to uncover more details surrounding the circumstances of the deaths. Community members are urged to remain patient as law enforcement navigates the complexities of this case. The local authorities have reassured the public that they are thoroughly examining all aspects of the situation.
Conclusion
The vigil in East Austin serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength found in community bonds. As the families and friends of the victims cope with their loss, the words of support and fond memories shared during the vigil will help to honor the legacies of Felicia Washington and Captain Austin Smith.
FAQ
What happened in East Austin?
Three individuals were found dead in a South Austin home. A community vigil was held to honor the victims.
Who were the victims?
The victims have been identified as Felicia Washington and Captain Austin Smith, with the third individual yet to be disclosed.
What is being done to support the families?
The Washington family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses, and Captain Smith’s family is requesting donations to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society instead of flowers.
Was foul play involved in the deaths?
Local authorities do not suspect homicide, and the exact cause of death remains undetermined as the investigation continues.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Description | Three individuals found dead in a South Austin home. |
| Vigil Date | Saturday, following the incident. |
| Identified Victims | Felicia Washington and Captain Austin Smith. |
| Community Response | Vigil held to honor the victims and raise support for families. |
| Investigation Status | No foul play suspected; cause of death still unknown. |
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Captain Austin Smith
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- NBC News: Chad Austin Cold Case
- Google Search: Felicia Washington
- Dignity Memorial: John Bramlett
- Google Scholar: JROTC program
- Williamson Memorial: Austin Williams
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marine Corps Relief Society
- Newsweek: Austin Metcalf
- Google News: East Austin Vigil
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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