June shooting involving 13-year-old now being investigated as homicide

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin Police Department said it was now investigating a June shooting as a homicide following a preliminary investigation.

According to APD, on June 25, officers responded to the call of a shooting in the 12200 block of Kelton Drive where the caller said a family member had been shot.

APD said medics arrived and found the victim, later identified as 13-year-old Julian Hernandez, on a bed and attempted life-saving measures. Hernandez was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

During an initial interview, the witness said Hernandez shot himself, but it was later discovered he had been shot and killed by a family member, who later told investigators they shot Hernandez by accident.

“At this time, no formal charges have been filed, therefore, we are not releasing the name of the family member who shot Julian,” APD said.

According to APD, this case is being investigated as Austin's 35th homicide of 2024.

Police said anyone with any information should contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org by calling 512-472-8477.

A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an arrest.