North Austin News

APD detectives have made an arrest in connection with an aggravated assault incident that took place at Barton Creek Mall on December 16, 2023. Vincent Gutierrez, a 19-year-old Hispanic male, was apprehended on December 21 and has been charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. He is currently being held in the Travis County jail.

The incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon when Austin Police Department (APD) Officers responded to a report of shots fired at Barton Creek Mall. One male individual was found with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was subsequently transported to a local hospital for treatment. Fortunately, the victim's injuries were not life-threatening.

Investigations have revealed that the incident stemmed from a private party sale of merchandise that was arranged through a social media platform. The victim and the suspect were part of different groups involved in the transaction and did not know each other prior to this encounter. A physical altercation broke out between the two parties, which ultimately escalated into a shooting.

Following the incident, the suspects involved in the altercation promptly fled the scene. However, the Austin Police Department has assured the public that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to public safety. In response to the incident, the APD has increased directed patrols in the area to provide additional security.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation. APD's Aggravated Assault unit can be contacted at 512-974-5245. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. There may be a reward of up to $1,000 available for information that leads to an arrest.

The arrest of Vincent Gutierrez in connection with the aggravated assault incident at Barton Creek Mall brings some closure to the case. The Austin Police Department remains committed to maintaining public safety and will continue to take proactive measures to ensure the well-being of the community.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.austintexas.gov/news/update-apd-detectives-arrest-man-connection-aggravated-assault-deadly-weapon-investigation