Abbott responds to shooting near Austin high school

Governor Greg Abbott has expressed his concern over the shooting of an on-duty officer from the Austin Independent School District (AISD) near Northeast Early College High School. The Governor’s office stated that he and First Lady Cecillia Abbott are praying for the officer’s recovery.

In a press release issued by his office on December 5, Governor Abbott underscored the importance of ISD police officers in maintaining safety in Texas schools. “Our ISD police officers play a critical role in keeping Texas students and school faculty safe,” said Abbott. He further assured that the state would provide all necessary resources to aid local law enforcement efforts to apprehend the perpetrator. “The State of Texas is offering all available resources to local law enforcement partners who are working to ensure this dangerous criminal is caught and brought to justice,” he stated.

Austin ABC station KVUE News reported that the Austin Police Department (APD) confirmed that the unidentified officer was shot in the leg and subsequently transported to hospital. The officer is reportedly stable and expected to be discharged soon. APD described the incident, which took place near 7105 Berkman Dr., as “unprovoked”, indicating no prior interaction between the officer and suspect.

Wayne Sneed, AISD Chief of Police, informed Austin NBC affiliate KXAN News that the officer holds a sergeant rank and was shot while performing routine patrol at campus. The shooter is reportedly still at large.

KXAN News also reported, citing AISD officials, that due to ongoing investigations, a controlled release of students was implemented at the school located not far from U.S. 290. The school had been put on lockdown after the shooting, which drew responses from a total of 15 agencies, according to Sneed.

KVUE News further reported that students were transported by bus to Delco Activity Center where they could reunite with their parents or legal guardians. Students without anyone available for pick-up were dropped off at their residences.

Finally, the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) expressed their support for the injured officer in a statement to Austin FOX affiliate KTBC News.