Suspect arrested, 15-year-old victim identified in SE Austin homicide

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin police have identified the 15-year-old victim who was fatally shot Sunday morning and arrested a suspect on Monday.

Austin's 24th homicide happened at around 6:41 a.m. on May 4 in the 5700 block of Hammermill Run.

The victim, later identified as Neithan Jadiel Montenegro, was found with apparent gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, Montenegro was pronounced dead at 7:08 a.m.

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The suspect, Victor Javier Orellana-Carranza, 38, was arrested later that day while attempting to flee the country. According to police, Orellana-Carranza had gone to the residence to look for his 2-year-old son. The child's mother, her 17-year-old son, and Montenegro were present at the time.

Authorities said Orellana-Carranza assaulted the child's mother, prompting a physical altercation with the 17-year-old and Montenegro. After leaving the residence, Orellana-Carranza allegedly returned with a firearm, shooting at the 17-year-old and Montenegro, striking Montenegro.

The APD Tactical Intelligence Unit located Orellana-Carranza, and multiple units assisted in his apprehension. He has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held in the Travis County Jail on a $250,000 bond, according to online jail records.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for information leading to an arrest.