The man accused of killing three people in an Austin, Texas, Target parking lot told police he believed he was Jesus Christ, authorities said.
Ethan Nieneker, 32, allegedly opened fire on Monday, killing Target employee Hector Leopoldo Martinez Machuca, Adam Chow and Chow’s 4-year-old granddaughter.
Authorities said the shootings appeared to be random, with Nieneker targeting individuals without any known personal connection.
Police said the suspect then stole Chow’s car and attempted a multi-vehicle escape before being apprehended.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis described the attack as “an unprovoked and deliberate act of violence.”
She added, “Innocent lives were taken in broad daylight in a place where people should feel safe to run their everyday errands and to live their everyday lives.”
Authorities found Nieneker walking naked in a backyard, clutching a Bible. When he did not comply with officers’ commands, he was tased and taken into custody.
“He said that he was Jesus,” Sgt. Nathan Sexton said, confirming that the suspect’s self-perception became apparent during his arrest.
Court records show that Nieneker had an extensive criminal history, including prior arrests for domestic violence, assault, criminal mischief, driving while intoxicated and assault causing bodily injury.
He served a brief jail