A complex investigation is underway after a shooting spree in Texas left six people dead and two police officers injured. The suspect, identified as 34-year-old Shane James, was arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with the deaths of four people in Austin. James is also accused of killing his parents, Phyllis James, 55, and Shane Matthew James Sr, 56, at their home in San Antonio. He was apprehended after crashing his car while fleeing police following a shootout with an officer who suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
According to Interim Austin Police Chief Robin Henderson, the suspect was involved in a “series of violent incidents” that occurred throughout the day on Tuesday. The cause of death for the four victims in Austin has not been disclosed, but three others were injured in the shootings.
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Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar revealed that James had a history of mental health issues and had been previously arrested for assaulting family members. Despite his family’s claims that he needed mental health treatment and not jail time, James was released from custody in March 2022. In August, deputies responded to a mental health call at the James’ home, but were unable to intervene due to legal restrictions. The sheriff’s department is now investigating how James, who was unmedicated at the time of the attack, gained access to a weapon.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and praised law enforcement for apprehending the suspect. He emphasized that Texas is a “law-and-order state” and that violence will not be tolerated.
The injured victims, including two police officers and a bicyclist, are expected to make a full recovery. Authorities believe that James is responsible for all of the incidents and are working to establish a clear timeline of events. The motive for the shooting spree remains unknown.
