On December 13, 2024, at approximately 3:53 a.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 500 block of Thrasher Lane, near Montopolis Drive and U.S. Highway 183 in southeast Austin. Upon arrival, officers discovered 45-year-old Erik Anthony Tijerina lying unresponsive in the front yard of a residence, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Despite medical efforts, Mr. Tijerina succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 2:50 p.m. This incident marked Austin's 69th homicide of the year.
Preliminary investigations by APD Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Specialists indicate that multiple individuals exchanged gunfire in the area, resulting in Mr. Tijerina being struck while in the front yard. It remains unclear whether he was involved in the shootout or was an unintended victim caught in the crossfire.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the identities of the suspects involved remain unknown. APD continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and urges anyone with information to come forward. Individuals can contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS or submit information 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.
