Driving around the city in stolen vehicles, the suspects fired at two fire stations, apartment buildings and houses during a robbery and shooting spree from Saturday afternoon to Sunday morning, Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said, NBC News reported.
The two boys, ages 15 and 17, were apprehended after they were pulled over in a stolen car and attempted to run. A third person who had been at large was taken into custody later Sunday by Manor police. Davis said earlier in the day that it was unknown if that person was involved in the shootings.
She said the firearm that was used in the shootings had earlier been stolen by the 15-year old, and that the 17-year old was wanted for a separate firearm theft.
The city ordered residents of a large part of the southern area of Texas’ capital city to shelter in place Sunday while they were searching for the suspects. With two suspects in custody, the order was later lifted.
Four victims were taken to hospitals, including one with critical injuries, officials said.
The suspects stole at least four vehicles as they traveled around the city, Davis said.
“We don’t have any specific motive that has been identified. In fact, these actions appear to be random,” Mayor Kirk Watson said.