The Austin Police Department is actively seeking information on a person of interest in connection to the city's latest homicide, marking the 70th such incident this year. The investigation follows the fatal shooting of 34-year-old Mario Damian-Rayas, which occurred at the Chevy Chase Apartments in southeast Austin on the night of December 21. CBS Austin reports the victim was discovered unresponsive with gunshot wounds in the front seat of a vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene just minutes later, at 9:32 p.m.
Law enforcement officials have released an image of a man they believe to be linked to this fatal event. As described by authorities and shared by KVUE, the person of interest is seen wearing a dark-hued hat with a red rim, a gray Reebok sweatshirt, and dark pants, accompanied by black and white Nike shoes. The search continues as APD hopes that someone in the community will be able to provide further details leading to his identification and apprehension.
The shooting itself took place at Chevy Chase Downs, located at 2504 Huntwick Drive around 9:25 p.m., when police were called to the scene. Despite the rapid response, Damian-Rayas succumbed to his injuries shortly after their arrival. The suspect is believed to have fled the area immediately following the shooting, prompting an ongoing manhunt.
The Austin Police Department urges anyone with relevant information to come forward. Tips can be submitted to APD at 512-974-TIPS or to the Capital Area Crime Stoppers at 512-472-8477, where a reward of up to $1,000 may be made available for information leading to an arrest.
