Tragic Update: Fatal Target Parking Lot Shooting in Austin, Texas
A deeply sorrowful incident occurred on August 11, 2025, in the parking lot of a Target store in North Austin, during the back‑to‑school shopping rush.
Victims Identified
-
Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca (24), a Target employee, was fatally shot while collecting shopping carts. San Antonio Express-NewsPeople.com
-
Adam Chow (65), who was in his vehicle at the time, was also killed. People.comMySA
-
Astrid Fung, Adam Chow’s 4-year-old granddaughter, was tragically shot in the back seat. People.comABC7 Los Angeles
Chow’s wife sustained minor injuries while attempting to protect their granddaughter. People.comMySA
The Incident & Aftermath
-
The suspect, 32-year-old Ethan Nieneker, opened fire without provocation, beginning with the Target employee and then targeting the Chow family’s vehicle. AP NewsStatesman
-
He then stole the Chow family’s SUV and unleashed a chaotic spree—attempting multiple carjackings, causing crashes, and even vandalizing property. AP NewsStatesman
-
Nieneker was eventually apprehended while nude and holding a Bible; he claimed, “he was Jesus” when confronted by police. He was subdued with a Taser and arrested. AP NewsStatesman
Leave a Reply