Arrest Made In South Austin Homeless Camp Killing

AUSTIN, TX — Police have identified a suspect in the killing of a man found dead this week at a South Austin homeless encampment, officials said on Friday.

The case dates to Thursday, Jan. 23, just before 12:30 p.m. along the 4400 block of East St. Elmo Rd. A caller notified police the victim was in nearby woods.Upon arrival, officers found the body in front of one of the tents installed at the site. Police said in a press advisory they found the man outside a tent, and his body had sustained obvious trauma and clearly deceased.

Police have not yet identified the victim, pending notification of next of kin. The suspect in the case has been identified as Danny Jay Wing, 61.

Related story: Man Found Dead In South Austin Homeless Camp

Detectives said they learned the victim had come to visit someone at the homeless camp who was speaking with King at the time. Police said the victim approached the men, extending his hand to Wing as he introduced himself, before Wing — without warning, police said — pulled out a handgun and shot the victim in the upper torso.

After the victim fell to the ground, Wing is said to have stood over the injured man and shooting him again. As a result, a murder warrant was issued for Wing on Thursday, and he was later arrested by members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force.

As police continue their investigation, detectives ask anyone with video or information to call Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-TIPS or use the new Crime Stoppers App or email APD Homicide at homicide.apd@austintexas.gov. Those submitting tips have the option to remain anonymous, police said. Tips also can be submitted by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, free on iPhone and Android.