This story was updated at 3:22 p.m. Monday.
The suspected gunman in the fatal shootings of three people in Northwest Austin was arrested Monday morning by Travis County sheriff's deputies.
Police say Stephen Broderick, 41, killed his ex-wife and two teenagers near the Arboretum on Sunday. Broderick is a former deputy with the Travis County Sheriff's Office. He faces capital murder charges.
“I’m truly heartbroken that a former Travis County Sheriff’s Office Deputy is the suspect in such a horrific incident," Sheriff Sally Hernandez said in a statement. "TCSO is standing by to provide any, and all assistance we can to the families of the victims in their time of need."
Hernandez said deputies worked through the night to find Broderick and that a person had called 911 after seeing him in Manor.
Austin Police identified the victims Monday as Amanda Broderick, 35; Alyssa Marie Broderick, 17; and Willie Simmons III, 18.
Investigators said Amanda Broderick was meeting with her ex-husband for a scheduled visit with their son before the shootings. The son, who had been present, was located unharmed away from the scene.
According to the Elgin Independent School District, Simmons was a senior at Elgin High School, captain of the football team and was recruited to play football at the University of North Texas. Broderick had attended Elgin ISD from 2009 to October 2020, but had withdrawn from the district last fall. She was enrolled in Elgin’s Early College High School program and played on the girls’ basketball team.
“We are heartbroken by the news of this senseless tragedy, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families of Willie Simmons III and Alyssa Broderick,” Elgin ISD Superintendent Jodi Duron said.
Police said a motive had not yet been determined.
In a statement Monday, Travis County District Attorney José Garza said the suspect had been out on bond after being arrested for sexual assault of a child last June and that his office would request he be held without bail.
“Our office will ensure that Mr. Broderick remains in custody and is held accountable,” Garza said. “My heart continues to break for the victims of this senseless act of violence, their families, and for the anguish of our community.”
Austin Police and Austin-Travis County EMS were called to the 9600 block of Great Hills Trail late Sunday morning. EMS initially reported three people being treated for gunshot wounds; all three were pronounced dead at the scene. EMS said no one else was injured.
Authorities had helicopters and K-9 teams taking part in the search for the shooter. A shelter in place advisory for the Great Hills Trail area was lifted after police said they had exhausted their search.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.