Target gunman who killed 4-year-old and her grandfather thought he was Jesus, police say

Published August 12, 2025 5:55pm ET



The suspected gunman who murdered three people in an Austin, Texas, Target parking lot believed he was Jesus Christ, police said.

Ethan Nieneker, 32, opened fire at bystanders randomly on Monday, killing a worker gathering shopping carts, a 4-year-old, and her grandfather. He then stole the latter’s car and attempted a getaway, crashing, then stealing another car. Police found him walking naked with a Bible, telling officers he wouldn’t comply before being tased and subdued by police.

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