Austin Police Release Video After Armed Man Shot by Officers During Traffic Stop

The Austin Police Department (APD) has released preliminary details and video footage related to an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at approximately 12:40 a.m. in the 800 block of East Braker Lane.

According to APD, the incident began with a traffic stop for failure to use a turn signal. Officers found a female driver, a male passenger, and a young child in the backseat of the vehicle. The male passenger, later identified as Branson Berreles, informed officers he did not have identification.

Officer Ryne Kirchberg asked Berreles to step out of the vehicle. As Officer Kirchberg attempted to conduct a pat-down, Berreles pushed past him and began to flee. During the attempted apprehension, Berreles was seen reaching for his waistband and assumed a “bladed” stance, consistent with someone attempting to access a weapon.

At approximately 12:41 a.m., both Officer Kirchberg and Officer Jake Pitcher discharged their department-issued firearms, striking Berreles. Officers immediately began life-saving measures after locating a firearm and several magazines on Berreles.

Berreles was transported to a hospital for treatment. No other individuals, including the driver, child, or officers, were injured. Charges against Berreles are pending and remain under investigation.

Both officers have been placed on administrative leave, per APD protocol. Officer Kirchberg has served with the department for 4 years and 6 months, and Officer Pitcher for 1 year and 7 months.

The incident is under concurrent investigations: one criminal, by APD’s Special Investigations Unit in coordination with the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, and one administrative, overseen by Internal Affairs and the Office of Police Oversight.

Body-worn camera footage, radio traffic audio, maps, and still images have been released publicly and are available on APD’s YouTube and social media platforms. APD stated the footage has been reviewed by the District Attorney’s Office and the Office of Police Oversight. Viewer discretion is advised due to graphic content.

This remains an active investigation.