Gov. Greg Abbott warned that Texas will respond with “decisive and overwhelming force” following the deadly shooting on Austin’s Sixth Street and ordered expanded patrols in downtown Austin as part of a broader statewide security posture.
Two victims were killed and 14 others injured in the early-morning attack on March 1. The suspect was shot and killed by Austin police officers at the scene, bringing the total number of fatalities to three, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
“Texas mourns with the families and loved ones of those who were horrifically killed in last night’s attack in Austin,” Abbott said. “Cecilia and I pray for them, and we pray for the swift recovery of those who were injured. I have been in contact with Mayor Watson and DPS Director Martin and have offered the full support of the State of Texas to ensure all assistance and resources are deployed.”
Abbott directly referenced the broader geopolitical conflict while warning against threats to the state.
“This act of violence will not define us, nor will it shake the resolve of Texans. To anyone who thinks about using the current conflict in the Middle East to threaten Texans or our critical infrastructure, understand this clearly: Texas will respond with decisive and overwhelming force to protect our state.”
Operation Fury Shield Expansion
Abbott confirmed that he activated service members under Operation Fury Shield the day before the attack and said security measures are already in place.
“Yesterday I directed the Texas Military Department to activate service members under Operation Fury Shield to work alongside state and federal partners to safeguard our communities and critical infrastructure. Patrols have been increased at vital energy facilities, ports, and along our border. We have bolstered cybersecurity personnel and deployed unmanned aerial surveillance to monitor and protect critical infrastructure sites.”
He also directed additional enforcement through state agencies.
“I also directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas National Guard to intensify patrols and surveillance. Texas is relentlessly working with our federal partners to ensure every necessary resource is deployed to defend our communities.”
Increased Law Enforcement On Sixth Street
Abbott separately ordered an expanded law enforcement presence in Austin’s entertainment district following the shooting.
“And today, I directed the DPS to increase patrols and add law enforcement personnel in the 6th Street District in downtown Austin during weekends. We must ensure enough boots on the ground to discourage criminal activity.”
The directive marks an expansion beyond the statewide infrastructure protections announced the previous day under Operation Fury Shield, which focused on energy facilities, ports, and the southern border.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force continues assisting in the investigation. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office previously said investigators are reviewing evidence for a potential terrorism nexus but cautioned that it remains too early to determine motive.
Abbott closed his statement with a message aimed at deterrence.
“Texans are strong. We will not be intimidated, and we will not be terrorized. We will defend our state without hesitation.”
Authorities have not announced a final determination regarding motive. The investigation remains ongoing.