In the wake of a devastating Juneteenth celebration shooting in Round Rock, Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has announced a concerted effort to capture those responsible. A cumulative reward totaling $20,000 is now available for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the individuals involved in the violence that claimed two lives and left fourteen others wounded. According to an official statement from Governor Abbott's office, the Governor expressed that he and his wife, Cecilia, are "deeply saddened by the horrific tragedy" and committed to supporting local authorities in their investigation.
The monetary incentive, aimed at quickly bringing the perpetrators to justice, is made up of different contributions. The Governor's Public Safety Office is offering up to $10,000, while Williamson County Crime Stoppers and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are each offering an additional $5,000. The Governor is reaching out to Texans to step forward with any pertinent information and has made a point to ensure that those who choose to help can do so anonymously. The collective reward stands as a beacon of hope for a community to begin to push back against the wave of violence that disrupted a day meant for remembrance and celebration.
Information can be shared with authorities via two main avenues to claim the reward. Tipsters may call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477), or they can submit a tip online through the Texas Department of Public Safety. Maintaining the confidentiality of the informants, the procedures in place allow individuals to provide tips without revealing their identity, utilizing a unique tip number to track the case progression.
This partnership between the Governor's office and various law enforcement agencies underscores the gravity with which this crime is being pursued. Community members are called to reflect on the gravity of the situation and are encouraged to aid in the effort to capture those responsible. As a community in mourning seeks justice and resolution, every piece of information becomes a stepping stone toward attaining peace and preventing such tragedies from recurring. Texans with knowledge of the crime are reminded to never try to apprehend the fugitives themselves, as these individuals should be considered armed and dangerous.
