An off-duty deputy from Caldwell County Precinct 3 was shot in the parking lot of Club Rodeo in north Austin shortly after 2:00 a.m. He was taken to a hospital and later died. A suspect was apprehended later that afternoon with help from the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force, APD air support and K-9 units, and Texas DPS. Authorities are asking witnesses to come forward while the investigation remains active.
Off-Duty Caldwell County Deputy Fatally Shot While Working Security At Club Rodeo; Suspect Arrested
Off-duty deputy shot and killed while working security job in Texas, suspect apprehended
An off-duty deputy from the Caldwell County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office was shot and killed early Sunday while working an off-duty security assignment at Club Rodeo in north Austin, officials said.
Incident Details
Austin police responded just after 2:00 a.m. and found the deputy in the club parking lot with trauma to his body. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where Caldwell County officials said he later died from his injuries.
An off-duty deputy was fatally shot Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, while working as security at Club Rodeo in Austin, Texas.
Suspect Apprehension
Multiple law enforcement agencies later located and took a suspect into custody that afternoon. The U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force assisted in the apprehension, with support from Austin Police Department air support and K-9 units, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Investigation And Public Appeal
The investigation is ongoing. Detectives have asked anyone who was at Club Rodeo around the time of the shooting or who may have information to contact Austin police. Authorities have not released further details about the suspect or any possible motive as the probe continues.
Security team members wearing cowboy hats on July 11, 2025.
Caldwell County Precinct 3 (Facebook): "One of our Deputies, while working an off-duty security position at an Austin establishment, was involved in a shooting."
Out of respect for the deputy’s family, Caldwell County officials said they will withhold the victim’s name for now. Local precincts and community members expressed condolences and asked for privacy as the family is notified and mourns their loss.
Community Response
Caldwell County Precinct 2 posted that its "hearts are heavy" and asked residents to keep the deputy’s family, loved ones and fellow deputies in their prayers. Authorities continue to gather evidence and review video and witness accounts from the scene.
Help us improve.
