Off-duty Austin officer kills man who opened fire inside Pflugerville-area barbershop, TCSO says

February 21, 2026

Travis County Sheriff's Office personnel went to a homicide scene Friday night near the Pflugerville area after a shooting at a local barbershop. Officials say an individual fired shots inside the business, and an off-duty Austin police officer who was present returned fire, killing the person who had opened fire.

The sheriff's office identified the case as a homicide and took charge of the investigation at the scene. Investigators secured the area and began collecting evidence and statements to reconstruct what happened inside the shop.

The officer involved was not on duty at the time of the shooting but is employed by the Austin Police Department, TCSO said. Authorities have not released the names of the officer or the person who was killed, and they did not provide further details about injuries to bystanders.

Detectives remain on site as they interview witnesses and review any available video or audio tied to the incident. TCSO said it will release more information as investigators confirm the facts and complete initial processing.

The shooting has prompted questions about circumstances that led to the exchange of gunfire inside a business. County investigators will determine the sequence of events and whether any additional charges or actions will follow based on their findings.

Residents and those who were at the barbershop Friday night are encouraged to contact the Travis County Sheriff's Office with information that might assist the probe. Officials say updates will be provided when investigators can verify new details and make them public.