Case: 25-0750347
 
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
 
Time: 3:36 a.m.
 
Location: 11600 N. IH 35 NB
 
Victim (Deceased): Edward Espino, Hispanic male, 04/03/1977

On Sunday, March 16, 2025, at approximately 3:36 a.m., Austin 9-1-1 call center received multiple calls reporting a stalled Mitsubishi Mirage in the far left lane of the 11600 block of N. IH 35 NB. The call was later upgraded to a Crash Hotshot call after the stalled black Mitsubishi Mirage was struck by a Ford Bronco. The driver of the Mitsubishi was later identified as Edward Espino. The Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) and the Austin Fire Department (AFD) extracted Mr. Espino from the vehicle and attempted first aid, when they discovered a gunshot wound on his body. Mr. Espino was pronounced deceased at 4:14 a.m. The driver of the Ford Bronco was interviewed by detectives, was cooperative with the investigation, and is not believed to be connected to the homicide.

Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Specialists responded to process the scene and interview witnesses. The initial investigation showed that Mr. Espino was in his Mitsubishi Mirage and driving northbound on IH 35 where his vehicle came to a stop in the far left lane of N. IH 35 before being struck from behind by the Bronco. The shooting suspects have not yet been identified.

Detectives are encouraging anyone who may have been in the area and heard possible shots fired, anyone who may have seen the Mitsubishi Mirage driving, or anyone who may have seen vehicles that appeared to be in an altercation to come forward so detectives can further investigate. If anyone has additional photos, videos, or potential evidence, please submit them by clicking here or scanning the QR code below.

Anyone with information should contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an arrest.

This case is being investigated as Austin's 9th homicide of 2025.