Austin Police look for man carrying machete during some robberies
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Police are looking for a man connected with a string of robberies that have left some victims seriously injured and hospitalized in north and northeast Austin, APD said in a release.
APD said the man has used a machete, firearm and a bat throughout the nine robberies between Sept. 19 and Oct. 4. Police said the incidents have happened between the 300-1800 blocks of West Rundberg Lane around the Northgate, North Plaza and Research Boulevard areas.
Most of the victims are Hispanic or non-English speaking. The suspect was seen testing door knobs at various complexes in the area, along with car doors, APD said.
Police described the suspect as a Black man, possibly in his mid-30s with a stocky, muscular build. He is approximately 6 foot to 6 foot, 3 inches tall. The suspect was seen wearing a face covering, dark clothing and sometimes gloves, APD said.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the APD Robbery tip line at (512) 974-5092, Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS or use the new Crime Stoppers App.
APD safety tips
- Lock all doors including patio doors, front doors, car doors and gates.
- Report any suspicious persons to 911. If you see someone carrying a machete, relay that to dispatch and reference this robbery suspect so patrol can respond quickly.
- Stay off your phone while walking through parking lots and be aware and observant of your surroundings.
- Try to have someone with you while walking to and from your vehicle in parking lots.
- Remind your apartment management to ensure the surveillance cameras are working.
- Open up a bank account and do not carry large amounts of cash on you.
- If you have a surveillance camera or doorbell camera that may have suspicious activity from this area regarding the described suspect, reach out to the APD Robbery tip-line.