Texas Shooter Had Prior Encounters with Law Enforcement, Including Mental Health Episode
A 34-year-old man, Shane James, was arrested on December 5th after multiple shootings in Austin and one in the San Antonio area. The shootings at five separate locations in Central and South Texas resulted in the deaths of six people and injuries to three others. Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar confirmed that two of those deaths were of James’ parents, Phyllis James, 55, and Shane James Sr., 56. He also outlined his office’s history with the individual, who he said had a history of mental illness.
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Background
James had a history of mental illness and was discharged from the military due to a domestic violence incident. He was arrested at his family’s home in Bexar County on January 6, 2022, after being accused of assaulting his parents and another sibling. He was booked into the Bexar County jail on three misdemeanor assault charges the next day. A week later, a victims advocate who reached out to the family asked for James’ release, citing his history of mental health issues. His bond conditions were changed at the end of the month, likely allowing him no harmful contact with his family so that he could return home with them, Salazar speculated. By March 7, he was released from jail, but cut off his ankle monitor the next day, which was a violation of the terms of his probation. A warrant was reissued on March 9.
The Incident
On December 5th, 2023, James went on a shooting rampage through Austin. He was confronted by sheriff’s deputies in August during a mental health crisis and could have been arrested on a violation for cutting off an ankle monitor. The suspect was upset and would not let authorities inside his bedroom. Deputies eventually left and asked the suspect’s father to call so they could return and arrest James, but they were never called back, the sheriff said.
Conclusion
The incident has raised questions about the need for better mental health care and gun control laws. The suspect was able to buy a gun despite having active warrants out for his arrest. The incident has also highlighted the need for better communication between law enforcement agencies and mental health professionals. The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has said that it will be reviewing its policies and procedures in light of the incident.
