A routine shopping trip in Austin, Texas, turned into tragedy on August 11, 2025, when a gunman opened fire outside a Target store, killing three people — including a 4-year-old girl — before leading police on a chaotic pursuit across the city. Authorities identified the suspect as 32-year-old Ethan Nieneker, who was taken into custody after a series of crashes, attempted carjackings, and assaults. Police say the victims were Target employee Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, 24; Adam Chow, 65; and Chow’s granddaughter, Astrid Fung. Chow’s wife survived with minor injuries.
According to investigators, the shooting began when Machuca was attacked in the parking lot. The suspect then opened fire on the Chows’ vehicle, fatally injuring Adam and Astrid, before fleeing in their SUV. Over the next hour, Nieneker allegedly carjacked other vehicles, struck multiple cars, and assaulted drivers. He was eventually arrested in a residential neighborhood after being spotted walking unclothed, with officers using a Taser to subdue him.
Police described the attack as unprovoked and random. Records show the suspect has a history of arrests for assault and other offenses. Loved ones are remembering the victims for their kindness and community spirit. The Chow family called Adam their “steady backbone” and described Astrid as “pure joy.” Friends of Machuca recalled him as a dedicated worker and loyal friend. A fundraiser to help with funeral costs has already gathered tens of thousands of dollars.
The incident came just two weeks after another mass shooting in New York City’s Midtown Manhattan, where four people, including an NYPD officer, were killed. Authorities in both cases say investigations are ongoing as communities grieve and officials call for continued support for victims’ families.