Austin Homeowner Kills Intruder in Self-Defense

On Saturday, October 21, 2023, at around 11:43 p.m., Austin Police Department (APD) officers swiftly responded to a shooting incident in the 10500 block of Foundation Road.

The incident unfolded when a resident reported to authorities that he had shot a suspected intruder, identified as 55-year-old Ricardo Cortez, who had forcefully entered his home. Upon reaching the scene, officers discovered Mr. Cortez with a gunshot wound.

Despite immediate medical attention, Mr. Cortez succumbed to his injuries a short time later.

In response to the incident, Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Specialists were dispatched to thoroughly process the scene and interview witnesses. Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that Mr. Cortez had broken into the residence and subsequently entered the bedroom where the resident was located. The resident, acting in self-defense, discharged a firearm, resulting in the fatality. The resident promptly dialed 911 to report the incident.

Anyone with any information should contact APD’s Homicide unit at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.

This case is being investigated as Austin’s 56th homicide of 2023.