The Austin Police Department (APD) is currently investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on May 7, 2025, in the 800 block of East Braker Lane. The incident took place around 12:40 a.m. and involved a traffic stop due to a failure to use a turn signal.
According to APD, two officers have been placed on administrative leave following their discharge of firearms during the event. Both officers are part of the department’s ongoing investigation, which includes both criminal and administrative inquiries conducted with oversight from the Office of Police Oversight (OPO).
During the traffic stop, officers encountered a vehicle containing a female driver, a male passenger identified as Branson Berreles, and a young child in the backseat. Officer Ryne Kirchberg requested Mr. Berreles to exit the vehicle after he failed to provide identification. Upon exiting, Mr. Berreles reportedly attempted to flee on foot and reached towards his waistband, allegedly trying to retrieve a firearm.
Officer Kirchberg and Officer Pitcher discharged their weapons at approximately 12:41 a.m., striking Mr. Berreles. Following this, they secured him and began life-saving measures before transporting him to a local hospital for treatment. A firearm and multiple magazines were found in Mr. Berreles’ possession.
Currently, charges against Mr. Berreles are pending as investigations continue into the specifics of what charges will be filed.
No other individuals were injured during the incident, including the female driver or the child present in the vehicle.
Body-worn camera footage captured by officers during the event is being reviewed as part of standard procedure. However, APD notes that such footage may not fully capture everything experienced by those involved.
In compliance with state law and investigative integrity protocols, some materials related to this case have been redacted before public release due to graphic content and language; viewer discretion is advised when accessing these materials through APD’s social media platforms.
The APD encourages anyone with additional information about this incident to contact their Special Investigation Unit or submit tips anonymously via Capitol Area Crime Stoppers.
