AUSTIN, Texas — In the span of two months, multiple shootings struck North Austin.
A 13-year-old was arrested and charged with murder for killing Francisco Miranda, according to the Austin Police Department (APD). Miranda was found with a gunshot wound in the Avalon Palms Apartments along West Rundberg Lane in January.
In December 2023, the same teenager allegedly involved in Miranda's death was also linked to a drive-by shooting at a convenience store on Thurmond Street, once known as Thurmond Market. Another juvenile was also arrested in connection with the shooting.
According to Austin's Office of Violence Prevention, the area in North Austin is considered a hot spot for violence.
"The area has been identified as a place where there is community violence," Michelle Myles, manager of the office, said.
Myles said through the office, the city has a program called ATX Peace, which has what they call peace connectors who go out into the neighborhoods and spread the word about safety as well as offer services.
The program has been active for more than a year.
"The goal is to do outreach to folks who are most at risk for community violence as well, from being a victim and also from perpetrating that type of violence and crime," Myles said.
Myles noted that despite the recent crimes connected to juveniles, the age range the office sees typically falls around 18 to 30 years old.
Myles hopes through the peace connectors, Austin can prevent future tragedies and violence. However, Myles also mentioned that crime is trending downward in Austin.
"We need to support our families and our young people and support the community so we can have greater peace so folks can work together," Myles said.