The man accused of killing three people in an Austin, Texas, Target parking lot told police he believed he was Jesus Christ, authorities said.
Ethan Nieneker, 32, allegedly opened fire on Monday, killing Target employee Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, Adam Chow and Chow’s 4-year-old granddaughter.
Authorities said the shootings appeared to be random, with Nieneker targeting individuals without any known personal connection.
Police said the suspect then stole Chow’s car and attempted a multi-vehicle escape before being apprehended.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis described the attack as “an unprovoked and deliberate act of violence.”
She added, “Innocent lives were taken in broad daylight in a place where people should feel safe to run their everyday errands and to live their everyday lives.”
Authorities found Nieneker walking naked in a backyard, clutching a Bible. When he did not comply with officers’ commands, he was tased and taken into custody.
“He said that he was Jesus,” Sgt. Nathan Sexton said, confirming that the suspect’s self-perception became apparent during his arrest.
Court records show that Nieneker had an extensive criminal history, including prior arrests for domestic violence, assault, criminal mischief, driving while intoxicated and assault causing bodily injury.
He served a brief jail sentence in 2016 for assaulting a family member, according to the Washington Examiner.
Police said the shootings began when Nieneker opened fire on Machuca, who was collecting shopping carts in the Target lot.
He then allegedly targeted a Jeep Cherokee before approaching a Toyota 4Runner, where he shot Chow in the driver’s seat and the child in the backseat.
Chow’s wife, carrying her granddaughter, was pushed from the vehicle as Nieneker fled.
After leaving the parking lot, Nieneker allegedly attempted to steal a water truck and continued a series of carjackings across the area.
Police reported a multi-vehicle crash involving the 4Runner, a Volkswagen and an Infiniti SUV during the pursuit.
Nieneker reportedly assaulted a woman in the Volkswagen before being taken into custody. Clothing recovered at the scene matched what he had discarded in a nearby porta potty, Fox News reports.
Target released a statement expressing grief and support for those affected.
“We are devastated by the violence that occurred today at our store in Austin, Texas, the statement read. “Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, our team in Austin and all those impacted by this tragedy.”
“We are grateful to the first responders who acted quickly at the scene.”
Chief Davis confirmed that Nieneker had a history of mental health issues, including prior emergency detention holds.
“This is a very sad day for Austin. This is a very bad day for us all, and my condolences go out to the families,” she said.
Authorities are reviewing the suspect’s mental health background, criminal history and the full sequence of events leading up to the deadly attack.
Nieneker faces two counts of capital murder and one count of first-degree felony murder and the investigation remains ongoing to determine whether additional factors may have contributed to the incident.
Officials continue to urge the community to remain vigilant while law enforcement assesses any potential public safety implications in the wake of the shooting.
The tragic events have sparked discussions on mental health support, public safety measures, and the protections in place for everyday citizens conducting routine errands.
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Author: Gloriel Howard
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