A fatal hostage situation in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of two victims and a SWAT officer, is currently under investigation, as confirmed by local authorities.
The suspect was also killed during the ensuing gunfight, which left another officer injured, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.
The Austin Police Department received reports of a stabbing at approximately 2:50 a.m. on Saturday, according to interim Chief of Police Robin Henderson.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered two wounded victims inside the residence, along with the suspect. A third victim, who had managed to escape the house, was found in the vicinity and subsequently transported to the hospital.
The escaped victim informed authorities that the suspect was reportedly armed with a knife, as stated by the police.
A forced entry into the residence was attempted by the officers at 3 a.m., but they were met with gunfire and had to pull back. The Austin Police SWAT Team was then summoned to handle the situation, which involved a barricaded suspect inside the house holding two hostages.
At 4:11 a.m., SWAT officers entered the residence and a gunfight ensued when the suspect began firing at the officers. The suspect was fatally shot by the SWAT team. During the exchange of fire, two SWAT officers were hit by bullets, resulting in one fatality and another officer in stable condition.
The two hostages inside the house were declared dead at the scene, as confirmed by the authorities.
The fallen SWAT officer was identified as Senior Police Officer Jorge Pastore.
In a heartfelt statement posted on X, previously known as Twitter, Henderson wrote, "My heart is heavy today. Please help me and our APD family pay tribute to SPO Jorge Pastore for his brave & heroic actions. Sir, we'll take it from here."
He further added, "Thanks for all the prayers & thoughts. Continue to keep the Pastore family and our second Officer injured in your prayers."
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