South Austin Shooting Update: 2 Teen Suspects Arrested After Random Rampage Leaves Dog Walker, 3 Others Wounded
Austin police say that two suspects are now under arrest in connection with 12 shootings that left four people wounded during a rampage throughout South Austin, TX, on May 17, 2026. One of the victims was a man walking his dog who was "shot in the back."
"UPDATE: The shelter in place for the south Austin area has been lifted, and two suspects are in custody. One remains at large in the Manor area. More information to follow," Austin police wrote on X. The suspects' names and ages were not released, but police said in a previous statement and news conference that they believe the suspects are teens, but they aren't sure what the motive is for the spree.
However, CBS Austin reported that the suspects are ages 15 and 17 and one had a warrant for "the theft of a firearm from the same store where the 15-year-old had stolen a gun from Saturday. (Police Chief Lisa) Davis said both firearms used in the shootings were stolen."
Austin Police Say 2 of the Shootings Broke Out at Austin Fire Stations & the Suspects Switched Cars
UPDATE: The shelter in place for the south Austin area has been lifted, and two suspects are in custody. One remains at large in the Manor area. More information to follow. https://t.co/8ZBsDsjbvc
— Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) May 17, 2026
The mayor joined the police for a brief news conference that provided new details.
"We are reporting multiple shootings throughout the area," Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said in a news conference. "Two of them have been at the two Austin fire department stations. These are occurring primarily in south Austin, and we don't have any specific motive that has been identified." Other shootings took place at random apartment buildings and an intersection, according to CBS Austin.
According to Watson, "These actions appear to be random. This is an active and ongoing investigation. So what we are asking is that all of our people, all of our residents, please remain vigilant."
"As part of this people are changing vehicles," he added. "It's very important for people to remain vigilant. If you see anything, we are asking you to call 911. A warning has gone out. Please pay heed to that." However, as noted, the city later lifted the shelter-in-place call after the suspects' arrests.
According to the Austin Police Chief, the Shootings Mostly Occurred in South Austin
Ten shootings "occurred late yesterday and into today," the Austin Police Chief, Lisa Davis, said during the news conference. However, CBS Austin later said the number had increased to 12.
Most of the shootings have occurred in South Austin, she added, also indicating, "No specific motive, and they appear to be random in nature. This investigation is ongoing." Four individuals have been shot with one sustaining serious injuries, and the other three not being seriously injured, the chief said.
"These cars are being stolen. Do not leave keys or key fobs in the vehicle. Stay safe. If you see something suspicious call 911 immediately," Davis said.
Authorities urged people not to approach any suspect vehicle. They said the suspects switched among a black or dark blue Hyundai, a gold Hyundai sedan, a silver Mazda four-door, and a white Kia Optima. They described the suspects as "two male Hispanics both in their late teens."
In an initial news release on May 17, Austin police wrote that the Austin Police (APD) "is requesting the public's assistance with identifying the suspect(s) in connection to various shootings that occurred on Saturday, May 16, 2026."
Austin Police Called the Shootings 'Random' Without Clear Motive
Austin police also wrote that they believe the shootings were random.
"There is no specific motive or location(s) the shootings are taking place, and they appear to be random," police wrote. "At this time, the investigation is ongoing, and APD asks that our community remain vigilant. If you see anything suspicious, know the whereabouts of the suspect(s), or the suspect vehicle, do not approach. Instead, call 9-1-1 immediately."
They initially described the suspect, preliminarily as being a "White or Hispanic male" in his "late teens." The suspect vehicle was described as: a 2012 Hyundai Sonata, black or dark blue in color, with a broke right passenger window.
"APD is asking for anyone with any information to contact the Aggravated Assault Unit at 512-974-5177. You can also submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 is available for information leading to an arrest," wrote Austin police.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 17, 2026 at 6:22 PM.