QUICK SUMMARY
Ethan Nieneker faces multiple charges, including capital murder, after a shooting at a North Austin Target on August 11 left three dead. The incident escalated into a series of violent carjackings and assaults across the city. Authorities report Nieneker's chaotic escape, culminating in his arrest while naked several blocks away.
A shooting at a North Austin Target on August 11 left three individuals dead and led to a series of violent carjackings. Ethan Nieneker now faces charges including capital murder and aggravated robbery after allegedly opening fire in the parking lot around 2:15 p.m. The first victim was Target employee Rosa Machuca, followed by 65-year-old Adam Chow, who was fatally shot while his granddaughter was in the back seat. Chow's wife was injured while trying to save her granddaughter, who also died. Nieneker attempted to carjack several vehicles, attacking a construction worker and later trying to enter a Waymo vehicle. Law enforcement apprehended him at 3:06 p.m. after he was found naked in the vicinity. He reportedly confessed to the shootings and claimed to be Jesus. This tragic incident has heightened concerns about safety and gun violence in the community.