In a harrowing act of gun violence outside a supermarket in Texas, at least three people were killed on Monday (local time). The suspect, who has been identified as a white male, fled the scene in a stolen car, as per local officials. Caught in the Target parking lot crossfire was a fourth person who was injured, and a child among those who died

Austin police chief Lisa Davis confirmed that they have taken the 32-year-old white man into custody during a press conference after the incident. She revealed that the man was involved in a car theft altercation that led him to shoot his first victim, following which he stole a succession of cars. After wrecking the first car, he stole another vehicle, after which the officials detained him in South Austin. The suspect was tased and then cuffed into custody.

Texas target shooting

Investigative reports suggest that the shooting suspect may have a mental health illness and could have contributed to his violent behaviour. His detainment was thus placed on hold due to his mental health condition. However, due to the brevity of his actions, he was arrested soon after he escaped.

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The officials have not released any information regarding the names of the victims or the suspect involved. The Austin Police, however, shared the description of the man on social media when he was still on the loose. They described his attire as khaki shorts and a Hawaiian floral shirt, to alert the residents to report and stay clear of such a man.

Davis condoled the loss of lives and said that it was a “very sad day for Austin”. This incident came at a peak time for shopping for school supplies as the academic year is set to begin in Texas, indicating an increased presence of school-goers in public spaces such as Target.

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The supermarket issued an emailed statement to the Guardian following the incident. It read, “We are devastated by the violence that occurred today at our store in Austin, Texas.” The corporation also added that they are working with the law enforcement authorities to support their investigation and volunteered to aid in grief counseling.