North Austin News

The Austin Police Department (APD) is currently investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place on Sunday, January 21, 2024. The incident occurred at approximately 12:29 a.m. when a 9-1-1 call was made requesting emergency medical services at 12310 Uttimer Lane. The caller reported that someone had been stabbed multiple times and that the suspect was still inside the residence with a female victim.

Upon arrival at the scene, three APD officers, dressed in distinct APD uniforms, quickly assessed the situation. They encountered several individuals outside the residence who provided information about the ongoing incident. One person within the group, who appeared to have been stabbed, directed the officers towards the door of the residence and informed them that there were others inside.

Due to the immediate need to preserve life and prevent further harm, the officers made the decision to enter the residence. At approximately 12:37 a.m., they entered through the front door, which was unlocked. Inside, they found the suspect, later identified as Jose Reynaldo Martinez-Argueta, holding a female victim who had suffered multiple stab wounds.

In order to protect the life of the victim, the officers discharged their Department-approved firearms, striking Martinez-Argueta. The incident was reported over police radio traffic at approximately 12:38 a.m. The female victim was safely escorted out of the residence, along with several other individuals, including three uninjured children.

Unfortunately, another victim, later identified as Maryuri Leticia Reconco-Moncada, was found inside the residence with multiple stab wounds. Despite attempts to save her life, Reconco-Moncada was pronounced deceased at approximately 1:06 a.m. Martinez-Argueta, the suspect, was also transported to a local hospital and is currently in stable condition.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Martinez-Argueta and Reconco-Moncada were in a relationship and were involved in a physical disturbance that escalated to the fatal stabbing. Two other victims were also stabbed and transported to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Martinez-Argueta is now facing charges of first-degree felony murder and two counts of second-degree felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The incident was captured on the body-worn cameras of three officers involved. As per APD protocol, all three officers have been placed on administrative leave. The officers have varying lengths of service with the Department, with one officer having 4 years of service, another with 5 and a half years, and the third with 8 months.

The APD will conduct two separate investigations into this incident: a criminal investigation in collaboration with the Travis County District Attorney's Office, and an administrative investigation overseen by the APD Internal Affairs Unit, with oversight from the Office of Police Oversight.

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.