On Monday, July 1, 2024, at approximately 5:39 p.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers responded to multiple calls of a stabbing in the front yard of a residence at 6715 Windrift Way. One caller reported that someone was bleeding. Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (A/TCEMS) arrived and located a victim, later identified as James Lerond, lying in the street and began lifesaving measures.
Officers arrived on scene and located footprints leading to the garage of the home and ultimately into the living room. When officers entered to check welfare, they located another male, later identified as Hayden Lerond, lying on the floor with blood on his knees. Hayden had minor injuries and was taken to the hospital for evaluation.
Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Specialists responded to process the scene and interview witnesses. The investigation showed that Hayden Lerond stabbed his father, James Lerond, causing his death. Hayden Lerond was booked into the Travis County jail for 1st Degree Murder.
Anyone with any information should contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. A reward up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an arrest.
This case is being investigated as Austin's 30th homicide of 2024.