The Austin Police Department is currently seeking the public's assistance in the case of Rex Johnson, 33, who was fatally shot while he was in the company of a friend near Interstate 35 and Fourth Street. The incident, which occurred on March 31, has escalated to a homicide investigation, marking Austin's tragic 12th such incident of 2025, as KVUE reported.
Standing with his blind friend, who was navigating with the help of a cane, Johnson was allegedly approached by two male suspects near the northbound frontage road of I-35. Police revealed that the first suspect knocked Johnson to the ground, and the second, subsequently shooting him, is still at large. In a statement obtained by CBS Austin, authorities detailed that both suspects fled east immediately after the shooting.
Efforts to track down the suspects have intensified with the release of surveillance footage depicting the men involved in this harrowing crime. The first suspect is said to have a slim build and long black hair and was recorded wearing a white shirt, dark shorts, and dark shoes. His accomplice, a man of medium build, was captured wearing a cap, a long-sleeved black shirt, gray shorts, and white and black shoes. The casualty, Johnson, was quickly rushed to a local hospital after the violent encounter, where he sadly succumbed to his injuries on Thursday afternoon.
Given the urgency of the situation, Austin police are urging anyone who might hold information to come forward. A reward of up to $1,000 is offered for tips leading to an arrest. While the suspects are still at large, tips can be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers at their website or by calling 512-472-8477, a program detailed by CBS Austin. Amidst the surge for justice, the APD remains steadfast in its plea for community assistance while piecing together the moments that led to this untimely death.
