Austin police have made two additional arrests in connection to the tragic shooting of writer Jamie White, who was shot while attempting to thwart a vehicle burglary. This incident, which highlights an alarming trend in car thefts within the city, unfolded on March 9 outside White’s apartment in South Austin.
According to law enforcement, investigators believe that the suspects, who had previously committed multiple Kia thefts, shot White while trying to steal his Kia Soul. Among the four suspects arrested are 17-year-old Eloy Camarillo and 15-year-old juveniles whose names have not been disclosed. Camarillo, who was apprehended on April 30, admitted that he and his accomplices were aiming for a joyride when White confronted them and was subsequently shot.
Surveillance footage revealed that the suspects arrived in a stolen silver Kia Soul, leading police to connect the dots between the thefts. The shooting occurred at around 11:56 p.m., and White was transported to a local hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Austin Police have charged all four suspects with capital murder, and authorities confirmed that no additional suspects are being sought at this time. The investigation is ongoing as police work to address the growing issue of car theft in the area.
The rise in Kia thefts across Texas has been notable, especially in light of a viral social media trend that displayed easy methods of stealing such vehicles. This surge has prompted increased public caution, with officials suggesting that residents invest in steering wheel locks as a deterrent. They also emphasized the importance of not intervening during a theft, urging individuals to prioritize their safety and contact law enforcement instead.
Jason Jones from the Austin Police Department remarked that the city has seen several similar incidents where individuals have been shot while interrupting vehicle thefts. “This is a very big problem in Austin,” he stated, underscoring the pressing need for heightened awareness and accountability among those involved in car crimes.
Despite the challenges, this incident has sparked conversations about community safety and the importance of proactive measures to combat crime. Efforts to curb vehicle theft are more crucial than ever, and police continue to seek input and cooperation from the public as they work to create a safer environment.
As the community processes this tragic event, there is a hopeful outlook for improved safety measures and public awareness regarding vehicle thefts.