Ethan (Blane) Nieneker, 32, has been charged in connection with a deadly shooting spree at a Target car park in North Austin, Texas, that left three people dead, including a grandfather, his 4-year-old granddaughter and a store employee. The attack took place on the afternoon of Monday, 11 August 2025, with police describing the killings as random and without a known motive. Nieneker was arrested after a city-wide manhunt and remains in custody at the Travis County Jail.
Timeline of the Attack
According to the Austin Police Department (APD), the incident began at approximately 2:15 p.m. in the Target car park at 8601 Research Boulevard. The first victim, identified as 24-year-old Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, was shot while collecting trolleys outside the store. He later died in hospital.
Moments later, police say Nieneker approached an SUV occupied by 65-year-old Adam Chow, his wife, and their granddaughter. Chow and the child were fatally shot inside the vehicle. The grandmother was assaulted before the suspect allegedly stole the SUV.
Over the next 50 minutes, authorities reported that Nieneker attempted additional carjackings, assaulted several motorists, and was involved in a multi-vehicle crash while fleeing police. Officers eventually located him in South Austin, where he was subdued with a Taser and taken into custody.
Victim Information Released by Authorities
The APD identified the victims on Tuesday, 12 August.
- Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24, a Target employee, died at hospital at 3:01 p.m.
- Adam Chow, 65, was killed at the scene alongside his granddaughter.
- The 4-year-old granddaughter's name has not been released publicly at the request of the family.
Police confirmed the victims were targeted at random and had no prior connection to the suspect.
Suspect Identification and Charges
Nieneker was formally charged with two counts of capital murder and one count of first-degree murder. Additional charges, including assault, vehicle theft and property damage are under review as the investigation progresses.
According to The Economic Times, Nieneker is currently in custody at the Travis County Jail. The report does not specify whether bond has been set.
Police Statements and Ongoing Investigation
According to the My San Antonio, the firearm used in the attack was reportedly obtained from a family member.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the suspect had significant personal and mental health challenges, describing the situation as a major failure in preventing violence. She questioned how someone in his condition was able to obtain a firearm and expressed concern over reports that it may have been provided by a family member.
The APD has urged anyone with information, dashcam footage, or eyewitness accounts to come forward, stating that additional charges are likely as evidence is reviewed.
Background on Ethan Nieneker
Public records show that Nieneker has a criminal history for domestic violence and assault. Court filings also indicate past incidents involving mental-health concerns.
Local outlets have reported that during or after the spree, Nieneker allegedly made religious statements, including claims of being 'Jesus'. 'He said that he was Jesus and there was no real reason whatsoever given', said Austin Homicide detective Nathan Sexton, as reported by The New York Post.
Community and Official Responses
Austin city officials expressed condolences to the victims' families and praised the rapid response of law enforcement. Authorities are expected to coordinate with community leaders on possible memorials.
Police have advised residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour, noting that while the incident appears isolated, investigations are ongoing.
