North Austin News

Austin, TX - The Austin Police Department Homicide Unit is currently investigating a homicide that occurred on December 26, 2023, in the 1700 block of W Braker Ln. The victim has been identified as Hector Diaz-Esparza, a 28-year-old white man.

According to reports, the police responded to a check welfare call where a man was found lying on the ground in the alley, bleeding and unresponsive. Despite the efforts of emergency medical services, Diaz-Esparza was pronounced dead at the scene. The Travis County Medical Examiner's office conducted an autopsy and determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma, confirming that the incident was a homicide.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Diaz-Esparza had been attacked by unidentified individuals who fled the scene. The victim had clear indications of physical assault and appeared to have been beaten. The Austin Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.

Sgt. William Jones of the Austin Police Department Homicide Unit stated, "We are actively seeking any information that could help us identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for this heinous crime. We urge the community to come forward and provide any information they may have."

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact the APD's Homicide Unit at 512-974-TIPS or email homicide.apd@austintexas.gov. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for information leading to an arrest.

This tragic incident marks Austin's 73rd homicide of 2023, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address and prevent violent crimes in the area.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.austintexas.gov/news/homicide-investigation-1700-block-w-braker-ln