East Sixth Street in Austin became the scene of a deadly encounter when a suspect, attempting to illegally enter the Soho Lounge with a firearm, was fatally shot by police after drawing his weapon on officers. As reported by KXAN, the incident left one person dead and three bystanders wounded, following the confrontation which occurred shortly before midnight.
In the chaos, the suspect discharged multiple projectiles toward three uniformed officers who had responded to a call from the lounge located at 217 East Sixth St. The officers proceeded to quickly engage and shoot the assailant, according to details released in a search warrant affidavit that cites body camera footage. Interim Austin Police Chief Robin Henderson confirmed to FOX 7 Austin that there were "indications" the suspect's gun was fired during the incident.
While the officers involved were unharmed, questions remain about the origin of the bullets that injured the three civilians. An investigation is currently underway to determine whether the injuries were caused by police or the suspect's gunfire. The officers, with 9, 11, and 13 years of service respectively, have been placed on administrative duty as standard protocol, pending the outcome of internal and criminal investigations, according to statements obtained by FOX 7 Austin.
Investigators aim to collect and review video evidence from the multiple cameras inside and outside Soho Lounge, with a search warrant authorizing the recovery of ballistic evidence, latent fingerprints, and trace forensic materials. The bar shows evidence of multiple projectiles having entered, causing damage and injuries. Henderson has informed KXAN that officers' body camera footage is set to be released "within 10 business days," with the holiday schedule potentially extending the release date to January 2.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, the nature of the three bystanders' injuries has yet to be confirmed. According to a follow-up request by KXAN, updates from the Austin Police Department on their conditions are still anticipated. Witnesses to the aftermath, like passerby Anthony, said "We saw bullet holes in the windows and through the walls, and he saw blood on the ground," as reported by FOX 7 Austin. APD is encouraging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
