An Austin police officer tragically lost their life today while responding to a hostage situation. Officer Horor Pastor, who had been with the department since 2019, leaves behind a wife and two stepsons.
Another officer was also shot and is currently being treated in the hospital. Additionally, two other individuals were killed inside the home where the police were initially called for a report of a stabbing. The suspect in the incident was pronounced dead at the scene. Reporting from South Austin, Jessica R provides the latest updates on this devastating morning. Interim Chief Henderson sadly confirmed that one officer has lost their life, while another is undergoing surgery for their injuries.
The Austin Police Department is currently investigating the officer-involved shooting, which took place at 9308 Bernly Drive on Saturday morning. Emergency services received a 911 call from the same location, where a distressed caller was screaming for help.
The caller then provided additional details, stating that someone was being stabbed. APD officers arrived on the scene at 2:57 a.m. to handle the shooting and stabbing incident. They quickly gathered information on the suspect’s whereabouts and were informed that two other individuals inside the residence were injured alongside the suspect. Fortunately, one victim managed to escape the house before the police arrived.
Observing that the suspect was holding the remaining victims as hostages and armed with a knife, the officers promptly retreated and did not engage in a firefight. Realizing the gravity of the situation, a SWAT team was called to provide assistance. They arrived on scene at 4:11 a.m..
