AustinNews.org

Attorney questions security guard's use of deadly force after man in wheelchair dies at downtown Austin bank

March 20, 2026

  • What: A man died after a security guard used deadly force inside a downtown Austin bank at the corner of 5th and Colorado Streets.
  • Who: The deceased is Roland Daniel Nadeau, 68; an unnamed security guard; the Austin Police Department; and an attorney challenging the guard's actions.
  • Why it matters: The incident prompted a police homicide investigation and raised legal and public safety questions about the use of force against a customer who used a wheelchair.

Austin police launched a homicide investigation last week after a man died during an incident at a downtown bank at the corner of 5th and Colorado Streets. Investigators responded to the scene and began gathering evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry.

The deceased has been identified as Roland Daniel Nadeau, 68. Police stated Nadeau had repeatedly harassed customers at the bank in the period leading up to the incident.

An attorney has raised concerns about a security guard's use of deadly force against a client who used a wheelchair. The attorney questioned whether the level of force used was necessary given the circumstances and the customer's mobility device.

The Austin Police Department described the case as a homicide investigation and said officers were conducting standard investigative steps at the location. Police have not released additional details about the security guard's identity or specific actions taken during the encounter.

Bank officials have not publicly disclosed further information about the incident or the parties involved. Investigators typically review surveillance video, interview witnesses and consult with prosecutors while determining whether criminal charges are warranted.

Community members and legal observers are watching the case because it touches on security practices at private businesses and the treatment of customers with disabilities. The investigation remains active, and authorities have not announced any charges or final findings.

Officials urged anyone with information to contact the Austin Police Department to assist the ongoing investigation. The attorney questioning the use of force said they will continue to pursue answers about the circumstances that led to Nadeau's death.

Sources

  • Police department statement
  • Attorney statement