AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department has identified the victim of a homicide that occurred Sunday evening in East Austin near the Mueller area.
Officers responded to a report of a disturbance and possible shooting at 4700 Loyola Lane around 5:07 p.m. After arriving at the scene at approximately 5:10 p.m., they found a man lying on the ground with injuries described as “incompatible with life.”
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The victim was later identified as Nicholas Zarate, 47, and was pronounced dead at 5:28 p.m.
Detectives and crime scene specialists are investigating. Officials said Zarate was shot by a suspect who fled on foot. No security camera footage is currently available, and police have not released any information about potential suspects.
This marks Austin’s 16th homicide of 2026.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Austin Police at 512-974-TIPS or submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be offered for information leading to an arrest.