Police Investigate Shooting at Austin Central Library

AUSTIN, Texas — Police are investigating a shooting that occurred Saturday afternoon at the Austin Central Library. The incident left at least one person injured and prompted a large-scale response from law enforcement.

The Austin Police Department (APD) reported that the shooting unfolded around noon at the library located at 710 W. Cesar Chavez Street. Officers arrived on the scene to find one victim who was later taken to a local hospital. The condition of the injured person remains unclear.

Authorities have described the suspect as a thin Black man wearing a gray hoodie and carrying two black bags. Police urge anyone who sees the suspect to call 911 and not approach him.

In the aftermath of the shooting, the library was evacuated, and law enforcement began clearing the building floor by floor. APD spokesperson Officer Destanie Sierra stated, “Responders are actively clearing the facility. One individual has been transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The public is urged to avoid the vicinity as we work to ensure the scene is secure.”

Witnesses described scenes of chaos during the evacuation, with library patrons rushing out, many still clutching personal items like laptops and bags. Videos shared on social media showed police and tactical officers responding rapidly to the library, a key cultural hub for the city.

As the response continued, police utilized reverse 911 calls and social media to issue shelter-in-place alerts for those in the surrounding area. The situation raised significant concerns among community members regarding safety in public spaces.

While initial reports indicated shots were fired from upper levels of the library, authorities have not confirmed any additional victims. Bomb-sniffing dogs were brought in as a precautionary measure.

This incident adds to the ongoing discussion about gun violence in the U.S., following a recent deadly shooting at a house party in North Carolina.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and other community leaders expressed support for those affected. “Our hearts go out to the injured and all who witnessed this horror. We stand ready to support our first responders and heal as a city,” they stated.

APD Chief Brian Manley is expected to provide a press briefing later in the evening with more details. The Austin Central Library, which typically serves over a million visitors annually, will remain closed indefinitely as the investigation continues.