On June 15, 2024, a Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth event happened during the Juneteenth festival.
Two women, Ara Duke and Lyndsey Vicknair, and 14 others were hurt or killed because of the shooting.
It started when two groups fought near the food stalls, and it turned violent with guns. Ricky Thompson III, 18, Keshawn Dixon, also 18, and a young boy are being questioned for the crime. The police are still looking for more information.
Victims of the Shooting
Ara Duke, 54, from Pflugerville, was an important person at IDEA Rundberg and will be deeply missed.
Lyndsey Vicknair, 33, from Manor, was involved in many activities like the Austin Bar Association, the Austin Honey Badgers Track Club, and was a lawyer at The Chapman Firm, recognized as a “Rising Star” in 2023.
The victims were between 10 and 62 years old, with 14 others injured and hospitalized, with most released by June 16 and doing well.
Law Enforcement Response
After the Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth the police started a big investigation.
The shooting caused two deaths and 14 injuries, leading to quick police action. Chief Allen Banks was upset and wanted justice for the victims and their families.
They caught Ricky Thompson III, a 17-year-old for killing someone and using a dangerous weapon, and another young man for the crime.
They also caught Keshawn Dixon, 18, for his role. Chief Banks promised to fully look into what happened, talk to people who saw it, and find out more to keep the community safe and stop this from happening again.
Arrests and Suspects
Ricky Thompson III, a 17-year-old from Manor, was arrested on June 20, 2024, for the Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth that killed two women and injured 14 others.
He’s facing serious assault charges after admitting to firing shots during a fight. His bail is set at $1,000,000.
18-year-old Keshawn Dixon was arrested for deadly behavior, and another young person was arrested soon after.
Police Chief Allen Banks said Thompson might not be the only shooter and that the investigation is still going on, with more charges and arrests possible as they collect more evidence and talk to witnesses.
Vigils and Memorials
After the event of the RRound Rock Shooting Juneteenth, the community united to remember Ara Duke and Lyndsey Vicknair, who were killed.
Many people came to Old Settlers Park and other places to say goodbye to these two women, who were loved in their communities.
People who worked with Duke at IDEA Rundberg remembered her as an important person who left a big mark.
Vicknair’s family and friends celebrated her life as a caring mother, lawyer, and founder of the Austin Honey Badgers Track Club.
The gatherings were a way for the community to mourn, share stories, and demand justice after this tragic loss.
Government and Legislative Response
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is deeply saddened by the tragic event at the Round Rock Juneteenth celebration and has offered a $10,000 reward for information on the suspects.
The state is fully supporting local police to ensure justice is served. Other agencies have also offered rewards, increasing the total to $20,000.
Discussions on gun violence and public safety have been sparked. Authorities are asking for any information or evidence to help catch the suspects, who are believed to be armed and dangerous.
Media Coverage
The news about the Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth has been widespread, with local news giving in-depth reports on what happened, including when it occurred, who was hurt, and what’s being done to find out more.
KXAN and KVUE have shared what police and other officials have said, like Police Chief Allen Banks, who was upset about the violence at a community event.
Social media has also been key in spreading the word quickly and getting people talking about Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth. Many have shared their own stories, offered their condolences, and demanded justice, making the situation even more emotional.
This mix of news and social media has helped keep people informed and united in wanting justice for the victims and their families.
The Round Rock Shooting Juneteenth highlights the need for community discussions on safety and preventing gun violence.
As the community deals with sadness, it’s important for leaders, police, and people to work together for healing and to prevent future tragedies.
