AUSTIN, Texas — Austin police have arrested two teenagers in connection with a chaotic weekend crime spree involving at least 10 to 12 random shootings, robberies, and vehicle thefts that left four people injured across the city.
The incidents began late Saturday afternoon, May 17, 2026, and continued into Sunday morning. According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, the suspects—driving stolen vehicles including a white Kia Optima—fired at random targets such as homes, apartment buildings, businesses, and even two fire stations. Four victims were shot: one suffered critical injuries, while the other three sustained minor wounds. No motive has been identified for the apparently random attacks.
The two primary suspects, a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old Hispanic male, were taken into custody Sunday after a traffic stop in a stolen vehicle. They attempted to flee on foot along with a third juvenile suspect. The third individual was later apprehended by Manor police east of Austin. All three are now in custody and are being held in juvenile detention.
Investigators noted that the 17-year-old had an outstanding warrant for stealing a firearm from a local store—the same location where the 15-year-old allegedly stole another gun on Saturday. Police recovered the stolen weapons believed to have been used in the shootings. The spree also involved the theft of at least four vehicles.
The violence prompted a temporary shelter-in-place order for parts of South Austin, which was lifted once the suspects were in custody. City officials, including Mayor and Governor Greg Abbott, praised the rapid response by Austin and Manor police.
The case remains under investigation, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to contact the Austin Police Department. The suspects have not been publicly identified due to their juvenile status.
SOURCES:
2 teenage boys arrested in random shootings across Austin that left 4 injured – Los Angeles Times
Austin shooting spree triggers shelter-in-place before 2 teens arrested | Fox News
Teenagers arrested in random shootings across Austin that left 4 injured | KELOLAND.com
Teenagers Arrested After Drive-By Shootings in Austin Injure at Least 4 – The New York Times
Austin police arrest 3 juveniles allegedly linked to 12 random shootings injuring 4 people
Austin shooting spree: Third suspected arrested; 4 injured
3 young people arrested in series of random shootings across Austin that left 4 injured
