The Austin Police Department is seeking assistance from the public in identifying a person of interest connected to a recent homicide on Rutland Drive. According to a news release published by the APD, the individual is described as a Hispanic male in his late 20s to early 30s, weighing approximately 240 to 260 pounds, and standing between 5'8" and 5'10" tall. The man has long, dark hair along with a mustache and goatee. Police urge anyone with information to come forward and provide tips, which can be done anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program.
The homicide investigation stems from an incident that occurred early in the morning on November 16, when the APD responded to a shooting at a residence in the 1900 block of Rutland Drive. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unidentified white female victim who had suffered from a an apparent gunshot wound. Despite attempts by ATCEMS to save the woman's life, she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Noah Mata, a 36-year-old Hispanic male and resident of the neighboring apartment, was detained and later arrested in connection with the shooting.
Investigative efforts revealed a struggle over a firearm between Mata and another male, which discharged and resulted in the tragic passing of the woman in the adjacent apartment. Mata is now facing charges for 1st Degree Aggravated Robbery and is being held at Travis County jail. The APD Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Specialists have been actively processing the scene and conducting interviews to understand the full scope of the events.
This incident has been marked as the 62nd homicide in Austin for the year 2024. APD continues to appeal for any relevant information, offering a reward up to $1,000 for tips leading to an arrest. Community members can contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS or anonymously provide details to Crime Stoppers online or via phone at 512-472-8477. With the hunt for the person of interest ongoing, the department stresses the value of public assistance in supporting the ongoing investigation and bringing closure to this case.
