AUSTIN, Texas — A Texas deputy constable has died after being fatally wounded by a suspect while working an off-duty security shift, CBS Austin reported.
The 38-year-old suspect was arrested on Jan. 4 by the U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force and charged with capital murder in the fatal shooting of Caldwell County Deputy Constable Aaron Armstrong, according to the report.
At a Jan. 5 press conference, Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis described the shooting as an execution.
“He was executed by this man who knew he was a cop, knew he was a police officer, and he did it,” Davis said. “I’m extremely angry to watch this video of him being executed.”
Body camera footage shows Armstrong, who was working off-duty security, escorting the suspect out of the club around 1:59 a.m. on Jan. 4 following an altercation, APD Sgt. Jeff Bauzon said. Despite receiving threats, Armstrong attempted to de-escalate the situation.
Minutes later, Armstrong encountered the suspect again in the parking lot and attempted to arrest him, according to the report. During the encounter, police said multiple individuals obstructed Armstrong’s efforts. The suspect then produced a firearm and shot Armstrong. The deputy returned fire before collapsing.
Armstrong was transported to Dell Seton Hospital, where he died at 6:39 a.m.
A second suspect was charged with assault on a peace officer after allegedly running over Armstrong while fleeing the scene in a vehicle, according to the report.
Police said the suspect has a criminal history including convictions for burglary, assault, and drug offenses.
Armstrong had served as security at Club Rodeo for several years. His death marks the third homicide in Austin in 2026.
Chief Davis said the department is developing a “legal and comprehensive strategy” to address safety concerns related to Club Rodeo, which has been the site of prior disturbances. The investigation remains ongoing.
