A routine shopping trip in north Austin on August 11, 2025, ended tragically when three people, including a child, lost their lives during a disturbance outside a Target store. Police identified the suspect as 32-year-old Ethan Nieneker, who was later taken into custody.
The victims were Target employee Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24; Adam Chow, 65; and his 4-year-old granddaughter, Astrid Fung. Chow’s wife sustained minor injuries.Authorities say the incident began in the store’s parking lot before the suspect left the area in a stolen vehicle, leading to multiple collisions and attempted vehicle thefts across the city. He was apprehended in a residential neighborhood less than an hour later.
Nieneker faces two counts of capital murder and one count of felony murder. Police noted he had a prior criminal history.Families and friends are remembering the victims for their kindness, dedication to loved ones, and joyful spirits. A fundraiser for funeral expenses has raised nearly $50,000.
Target has expressed condolences and is offering support resources to employees.Just two weeks earlier, a separate incident in Midtown Manhattan left five people dead, including an NYPD officer. The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Shane Devon Tamura, acted alone and was found deceased at the scene. Officials and community leaders have shared messages of sympathy and gratitude for first responders.