Austin Police Search for Two Teen Suspects After Series of Shootings

Austin police issued a shelter-in-place order for parts of south Austin on Sunday as they searched for two teenage suspects in a series of random shootings that began late Saturday. The order covers a 36-mile area south of Slaughter Lane, east of McKinney Falls Parkway, north of Ben White Boulevard, and west of Escarpment Boulevard.

Officials said residents should remain inside and avoid approaching any suspicious vehicles.

Police reported at least ten shootings within roughly 24 hours.

Four people were shot, one with life-threatening injuries and three with non-life-threatening wounds. No deaths have been reported. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the shootings appear random and investigators have not identified a motive. She described the suspects as two Hispanic males in their late teens.

One suspect has medium wavy hair and the other has longer hair, Davis told reporters. Authorities also released descriptions of three vehicles possibly connected to the incidents: a black Honda Accord, a gold Honda, and a white Nissan Altima.

Watson said multiple shootings occurred throughout the area, including at least two fire stations. He urged residents to stay indoors while the search continued. Davis warned people not to leave keys or key fobs in vehicles after several cars were stolen during the events.

She advised anyone who sees the suspects to call 911 immediately. " — Mayor Kirk Watson, May 17, 2026 (Newsweek) Police said the investigation remains active and additional updates are expected. The order was still in effect as of Sunday evening.