Austin police officer dead, another injured following overnight shooting

A SWAT police officer is dead and another is injured following an overnight shooting in a south Austin neighborhood. The Austin Police Department is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred at the 9300 block of Bernoulli Drive at 2:49 a.m. Saturday, November 11. 

“This is a very tragic day, a very tragic incident for all involved,” said Austin Police Department Interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson during a briefing. 

Early Saturday morning, a woman called 911 and was reportedly screaming for help, claiming someone was stabbing her. Police officers were dispatched to the location and determined two people were injured inside the residence with the suspect. A third injured woman was able to escape and was transported to a local hospital according to Henderson.

Officers proceeded with an emergency forced entry, in attempt to rescue the two hostages. The person of interest began shooting at the officers, forcing them to exit the location. Consequently, SWAT officer were called out to the scene as the person of interest remained armed and barricaded. SWAT arrived around 4:11 a.m. and forced entry into the residence, according to Henderson.

Upon entering, the person of interest immediately began firing his gun at the officers, at which time the officers returned fire. During the exchange, two of the officers were reportedly shot and later transported by Travis County EMS to a local-area hospital. One officer succumbed to his injures, and the other officer is currently in stable condition, according to Henderson. The identities of the officers will not be released at this time. 

The person of interest, who was also shot during the exchange of fire, was pronounced dead on the scene. The two injured persons found inside the residence succumbed to their injuries. Body cam footage was captured during the shooting, which is being investigated at this time, according to Henderson.

“We are in the early stages of investigation and the details are subject to change,” said Henderson.

City and state leaders across Texas have shared their thoughts and prayers on the shooting that took the life of one officer and injured another.

Mayor of Austin Kirk Watson released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “My heart and the hearts of Austinites are broken this morning. “

Governor Greg Abbott released a statement on X stating, “This tragedy is a reminder of the great risks and selfless leadership our law enforcement officers exercise every day to serve and protect their communities.”

Senator Ted Cruz also released a statement on X stating “Heidi and I are lifting up in prayer the family, friends, and loved ones of the Austin police officer who was killed early this morning in the line of duty.”

Texas State Rep. Gina Hinojosa shared her thoughts on the officer-involved shooting to X stating, “I honor their sacrifice, grieve their loss & commit to work for their safety.”