Mothers Day Homicide in Austin, Suspect in Custody
On Sunday morning, May 8, 2016, at approximately 2:38 a.m., Austin Police Officers responded to a fight in the 8600 block of N. Lamar Blvd. Upon arrival, officers located three persons with gunshot wounds and began life-saving measures. Two of the victims were transported to University Medical Center at Brackenridge Hospital. The third victim was pronounced deceased on scene at2:41 a.m.
The decedent has been identified as Rigoberto Jose, Hispanic male (DOB 02/08/1977).
The suspect fled southbound on N. Lamar Blvd. in a maroon Toyota pickup. A witness provided investigating officers with the vehicle’s license plate number. Officers proceeded to the registered owner’s address in the 10100 block of Floyd Dr. where several people were located, including the suspect.
An autopsy was performed by the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office and the manner of death was ruled homicide.
The suspect has been identified as Osiel Benitez Benitez, Hispanic male, 42 years of age. Benitez was arrested for Murder – Felony 1 and is in custody at the Travis County Jail. His bond has been set at $225,000.
Detectives are asking anyone with any information regarding this incident to call the Homicide Tip Line at 512-477-3588 or Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS or text “Tip 103” + your message to CRIMES.
Tips can also be submitted by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.
