Austin Police officer fired after internal probe into East Sixth Street punching allegation

February 19, 2026

An Austin Police Department officer who allegedly struck a man during an incident on East Sixth Street has been dismissed from the force after an internal inquiry. Department officials removed the officer from duty with no set return date while investigators examined the circumstances.

The alleged incident occurred on East Sixth Street, a busy corridor in central Austin known for nightlife and pedestrian activity. Authorities say the officer punched a man during the encounter, prompting an internal review by department investigators.

Internal investigators completed a probe into the officer's conduct, and the department concluded the conduct warranted termination. The personnel action ends the officer's employment with the department following the internal findings.

The department followed its internal procedures for investigating employee conduct, placing the officer on administrative leave during the review. Those steps allowed investigators to collect statements and any available evidence before making a recommendation on discipline.

Disciplinary outcomes in cases involving alleged use of force carry implications for both the individual officer and the department. Termination removes the officer from duty and can influence public perceptions about how complaints are handled and how officers are held accountable.

The department's policies include processes for appeals and additional review of personnel actions, which could apply depending on the specifics of this case. Any criminal or civil proceedings that could arise from the incident would proceed through separate systems outside the internal disciplinary process.

City leaders and community members have in past years watched similar incidents closely, urging transparency in investigations and clarity about next steps. The department has not released additional details about the identities involved or the evidence examined in the internal probe.

Investigative files and personnel records will document the decision, and any formal appeals or external reviews would be recorded in those channels. Until such records are made public or further action is taken, the termination stands as the department's resolution of the internal complaint.