UPDATE:
The Hate Crimes Review Committee has reviewed the February 4, 2024 incident and determined the facts of the case meet the definition of a Hate Crime. Per department policy, the information has been provided to the Travis County District Attorney's Office. The prosecuting office will make the final decision on enhancing the offense to a Hate Crime.

If you see something suspicious or are aware of any threats, remember to report it by calling 9-1-1. We All Belong is a campaign the City of Austin launched to show how committed we are to ensuring we are a place that is diverse and hate is not tolerated. To learn more about tools and resources available to report hate crimes and incidents, visit austintexas.gov/againsthate

PREVIOUS RELEASE

The Austin Police Department (APD) is aware of the bias-motivated incident that took place at Nueces St/W 26th St. APD is currently investigating this case. Based on the information we received, we believe the February 4, 2024 incident to be bias-motivated and will be reviewed by the Hate Crimes Review Committee. Once the committee reviews the details of this case, the information will be provided to the Travis County District Attorney's Office and/or the County Attorney's Office. It is up to the prosecuting office to enhance the offense to a bias motivated crime not the investigative unit. Bert James Baker was arrested in connection to the incident.   
 
We encourage everyone to educate, support, and respect all members of our community, regardless of their background or beliefs. We strongly condemn all forms of crime, especially those which are bias-motivated or showing of discrimination. Our Department is committed  to keeping our community safe and inclusive for all. We will continue to work to ensure that our community is a place where everyone feels valued and respected.
 
If you see something suspicious or are aware of any threats, remember to report it by calling 9-1-1. We All Belong is a campaign the City of Austin launched to show how committed we are to ensuring we are a place that is diverse and hate is not tolerated. To learn more about tools and resources available to report hate crimes and incidents, visit austintexas.gov/againsthate

INCIDENT DETAILS

Case:  24-0351341

Date:  Sunday, February 4, 2024

Time:  6:59 p.m.

Location:  Nueces Street and W 26th Street

Suspect (arrested):  Bert James Baker, White man, 36 years of age 

On Sunday February 4, 2024,  at approximately 6:59 p.m., Austin Police Department (APD) Officers responded to a disturbance call in the intersection of Nueces Street and W 26th Street. When officers arrived, they located a man with non-life-threatening injuries who was taken to a local hospital. A suspect, Bert James Baker, was arrested and booked into the Travis County Jail. He is charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

The investigation pertaining to this incident is ongoing, and there are no further details available for release at this time.