Police ID Victim, Suspect In Downtown Austin Shooting

AUSTIN, TX — A man shot overnight early Friday in downtown Austin has died, police said.

The incident occurred just before 2 am. on Friday at the 600 block of Sabine Street near East 6th along the downtown entertainment district. Austin-Travis County EMS medics originally described the condition of the victim, a man in in his 30s, as critical and life-threatening as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.

In a subsequent update, police said the man had died after being transported to Dell Seton Medical Center, upgrading the incident to a case of homicide. By early afternoon, police identified the victim as Derrick J. Armstrong, 29, who was pronounced dead at 2:38 a.m. despite life-saving efforts. Later on Friday afternoon, police identified the suspect as 19-year-old Ronnie Hardeman while noting he is still at large.

After interviewing witnesses, police said the two men had been in the area of Waller Creek in the 600 block of Sabine St. when they got into an argument and parted ways. Hardeman is said to have returned in confronting Armstrong again before producing a handgun and firing multiple rounds at the victim then fleeing the scene, police said.

The Travis County Medical Examiner is scheduled to conduct an autopsy on Saturday to determine the official cause and manner of death. In the meantime, detectives urge anyone with video or information about this incident to call Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-TIPS or text "Tip 103" + information to CRIMES or use the new Crime Stoppers App or email APD Homicide at homicide.apd@austintexas.gov. Those submitting tips have the option of remaining anonymous. Tips also can be submitted by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, free on iPhone and Android.

Related stories:

• Police Chief Vows Crackdown On Downtown Austin Violence
• Austin Residents Wary In Mass Shootings' Wake

This is the latest in a series of shootings that have occurred in the downtown entertainment district in recent months. Escalated violence in the downtown entertainment district of late led Austin Police Chief Brian Manley to vow a crackdown, outlining a series of potential measures to stem the violence.

The Austin Police Association, a union comprising law enforcement members, has raised alarms about the growing violence in the downtown sector. In light of the latest shooting there, they issued safety tips for residents visiting the entertainment corridor.

"Due to the homicide early this morning and the recent increase in violent crimes in the downtown area, the Austin Police Association wants to encourage students and visitors to...take extra personal protection measures when visiting Downtown Austin."

To that end, officials released the following safety tips:

• Go out with a friend or a group of friends.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Use well-lighted areas to walk or park. Try to avoid the dark streets, alleys, or parking areas.
• Have your keys ready when approaching your car.
• Keep your cell phone handy.
• Let at least one person know where you are or your itinerary (even if it is by text).
• Avoid groups or situations that appear rowdy or antagonistic.
• Drink in moderation.
• Keep your purse or other personal items in your possession.

"We want our college students and visitors to have a safe and enjoyable time in Austin," Austin Police Association members wrote in a Facebook post. "If you are a victim of crime call 9-1-1 or contact an officer patrolling the entertainment districts."