MFPD clarifies murder charge in Thunder Rock shooting
A 15-year-old Marble Falls High School student was shot and killed in an incident on the night of June 11, in the Thunder Rock neighborhood of south Marble Falls. Courtesy photo
The Marble Falls Police Department has addressed questions surrounding a shooting in the Thunder Rock neighborhood that left one teen dead and another charged with murder.
The shooting occurred in a vehicle in the 100 block of Gray Slate Avenue in south Marble Falls on June 11. The juvenile victim, identified as a Marble Falls High School student, was reportedly transported to Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, but died from his injuries.
The suspect in the shooting, an unnamed juvenile, was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with murder.
“The Marble Falls Police Department is aware of questions circulating on social media regarding the charge filed in this case,” MFPD Chief Trisha Ratliff said in response to questions from DailyTrib. “While we cannot discuss evidence in an active criminal prosecution, we can clarify that criminal charges are based on the facts developed during the investigation and the applicable provisions of Texas law.”
Chief Ratliff clarified the nature of a murder charge in Texas, and how that may apply to the Thunder Rock shooting investigation.
“In Texas, a person may be charged with murder when they intentionally engage in conduct that is clearly dangerous to human life and that conduct results in someone’s death,” she said. “Based on the totality of the evidence gathered during this investigation, investigators and prosecutors determined that the facts supported the filing of a murder charge.”
Chief Ratliff acknowledged the significance of this case to the Highland Lakes community.
“We recognize the profound impact this tragedy has had on the families involved and our community,” she said. “Because this case involves juveniles and remains pending before the courts, we will not be releasing additional details at this time.”
The victim’s death was also felt by the Mustangs.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of one of our students last night,” reads a media release issued by Marble Falls High School Principal Patrick Hinson. “Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, and all those who knew and cared for them during this incredibly difficult time.”