Issue 24, December 7, 2023

2 Tragic Mass Shootings: Austin area and UNLV

What’s Happening Now

Arrested: Texas Crime Spree Suspect Accused of Killing Parents Before Multicounty Shooting Spree


Shane James, a 34-year-old Texas man, was arrested following a violent rampage that spanned two counties, raising suspicions that he first killed his parents before carrying out additional murders. James faces multiple counts of capital murder in Travis County, and further charges related to the deaths of his parents are anticipated in Bexar County. The series of shootings occurred in Austin, starting with the morning injury of an Austin Independent School District officer, followed by fatal shootings in South Austin, and an evening incident that left a man wounded and an Austin police officer injured during a burglary call.
James, who has a documented history of mental health issues, had been previously arrested in January 2022 on misdemeanor assault charges involving his parents and a sibling. Despite his family expressing concerns about his mental health, James was released from jail in March 2022 after alterations to the conditions of his bond. He later removed his ankle monitor and had an additional incident in August 2023, prompting deputies to respond to a mental health episode at his residence. The suspect's parents were found dead in their San Antonio home during the investigations, further highlighting the complexity and tragic nature of the case. Authorities are actively pursuing leads and conducting thorough investigations into the incidents across both counties.

Cold Case Highlights