Austin, Texas, January 6, 2026

An off-duty deputy constable was fatally shot early Sunday morning at Club Rodeo in Austin, Texas. Deputy Aaron Armstrong was working security at the nightclub when the incident occurred. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and the investigation is ongoing as police seek further public assistance.

Austin, Texas – Off-Duty Deputy Constable Fatally Shot at Club Rodeo; Suspects Arrested

Austin, Texas – An off-duty deputy constable from Caldwell County was fatally shot early Sunday morning at Club Rodeo, a nightclub located at 9515 North Lamar Boulevard. The incident occurred around 2:09 a.m. on January 4, 2026. Despite efforts from medical personnel, the deputy succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.

Incident Details

The victim was identified as Deputy Aaron Armstrong, a member of the Caldwell County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office. He had been with the constable’s office since October 2024. At the time of the shooting, Deputy Armstrong was working an off-duty security position at the nightclub. Austin Police Department officers responded to the scene following reports that an officer from another agency had been shot. Upon arrival, they found Deputy Armstrong in the parking lot with trauma to his body. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigation and Arrests

Investigators believe the deputy was shot by an unknown suspect who remains at large. The investigation is in its early stages, and detectives are working to determine what led to the gunfire. The Austin Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying any witnesses or suspects who may have been at Club Rodeo around the time of the shooting. Police are also asking people to review cell phone or social media videos and photos that may capture the moments leading up to, during, and after the shooting. A reward of up to $1,000 is available for information leading to an arrest.

On January 5, 2026, the Austin Police Department announced that two men had been arrested in connection with the shooting. Thirty-eight-year-old Thomas Vences was charged with capital murder of a peace officer and four other felonies. Twenty-two-year-old Ronaldo E. Colindres-Simon was charged with second-degree felony assault on a peace officer. Both suspects are currently being held in the Travis County Jail.

Background Context

The Caldwell County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office serves Central Texas cities like Lockhart and Luling. Deputy Armstrong had been with the constable’s office since October 2024. The incident at Club Rodeo marks a tragic event in the Austin community, and authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

Public Assistance Requested

Authorities are urging anyone who was at Club Rodeo at the time of the shooting to come forward. Detectives specifically requested that the public review cell phone or social media videos and photos that may have captured the moments leading up to, during, or after the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Austin Police Department Homicide Tip Line at 512-477-3588. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at 512-472-8477.

Community Response

The Caldwell County Constable’s Office expressed condolences to Deputy Armstrong’s family and urged the public to assist in the investigation. The community has shown support for the family and law enforcement during this difficult time.

Related Incidents

This incident is the third homicide in Austin in 2026. The Austin Police Department continues to investigate and address violent crimes in the area to ensure the safety of the community.

FAQ

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