Police Search for Suspect Who Robbed South Austin Target and Assaulted Employee

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department is asking for public assistance to identify a man wanted for a robbery and physical assault at a Target retail store in South Austin. The incident occurred on March 9, 2026, when a male shoplifter was confronted by a store employee as he tried to exit the building with stolen merchandise.

According to police reports, the situation escalated rapidly when the suspect physically assaulted the employee who intervened. Following the altercation, the suspect managed to flee the premises on foot before law enforcement arrived. The employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the encounter and was treated at the scene.

Detectives have obtained security camera footage from the store showing the suspect's face and clothing. The police department has released these images to the media, urging anyone who recognizes the individual or has information about his location to contact the APD Robbery Unit. Retail security specialists advise employees not to physically engage with suspected shoplifters due to the increasing risk of violence in retail theft incidents.