North Austin News

The Austin Police Department (APD) has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of violent crimes that occurred over two days, from November 24 to November 25, 2024. The suspect, identified as Alexander Sanabria, a 37-year-old Hispanic male, was involved in multiple incidents targeting gas stations across the city.

On the night of November 24, officers responded to reports of gunfire at the All Star gas station on Nuckols Crossing Road. Surveillance footage showed a man firing several shots inside the store before fleeing. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The following morning, APD received another call about an incident at the Chevron gas station on Scofield Ridge Parkway. The suspect attempted to steal money and fired a shot into the ceiling before escaping in a white Chevrolet Cruz with incorrect license plates.

A witness at this location recognized the suspect as "Alex" and provided his social media information to detectives. This led to identifying Sanabria through various databases and confirming his involvement using surveillance footage.

Shortly after, similar robberies were reported at Wells Branch Food Mart and a 7/11 gas station. In both cases, the suspect demanded money while brandishing what appeared to be a weapon. He fled each scene in what was believed to be the same vehicle used previously.

Later that day, another robbery occurred at QuikTrip on FM 969. The suspect fired into the ceiling and threatened employees before taking cash from the register.

Authorities from surrounding agencies joined forces to locate Sanabria's vehicle. After multiple high-speed pursuits involving Pflugerville Police Department, Travis County Sheriff's Office, Department of Public Safety, and Round Rock Police Department officers apprehended him following a crash.

Inside Sanabria's vehicle were items matching descriptions from witnesses and surveillance footage: clothing worn during robberies and a handgun resembling one used in these crimes. Following treatment for crash-related injuries, Sanabria was booked on numerous charges related to these incidents.

APD acknowledged assistance from surrounding agencies whose collaboration helped ensure public safety by capturing this dangerous individual promptly.