Donations will help cover funeral costs, medical bills, and mental health counseling for those injured or bereaved. They will also support memorial services, trauma support groups, and community safety initiatives. Funds may be directed to established victim‑assistance nonprofits, hospital foundations, and community trauma relief programs in Austin.
On August 11, 2025, a shooting erupted in the parking lot of a Target store in North Austin, Texas. Three people were killed: Adam Chow (65), his granddaughter Astrid Fung (4), and Rosa Martinez Machuca (24), a Target employee. Multiple others were wounded. The gunman, later identified as 32‑year‑old Ethan Nieneker, fled the scene in stolen vehicles, crashed, hijacked another vehicle, and was eventually arrested after a chase. Authorities described the attack as random and unprovoked. The community has rallied in grief, and fundraisers quickly emerged to support the victims’ families.
In the early afternoon of August 11, 2025, a gunman opened fire in the parking lot of the Target located at 8601 Research Boulevard in North Austin. According to police, the shooter targeted individuals in the lot rather than inside the store. The victims emerged as three innocent people: a grandfather, his young granddaughter, and a store employee. The suspect then fled the scene, stealing a car, crashing it, and hijacking another vehicle before being apprehended about 20 miles away.
Investigators later identified the suspect as Ethan Nieneker, who had a documented history of mental health issues and prior run-ins with law enforcement. He now faces multiple serious charges, including capital murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Authorities described his selection of victims as random, and noted that he made erratic claims afterward, including that he believed himself to be “Jesus” in some reports.
Community members have expressed shock at the seemingly senseless violence. Vigils have been held, and local leaders are urging public support for the families of the slain and for security reviews at public gathering spots. In the days following, a GoFundMe campaign for Adam Chow and his granddaughter exceeded its initial goal, reflecting the community’s deep resolve to stand together during this crisis. The investigation continues as law enforcement seeks to understand more about the motive and the suspect’s mental health history.
