Austin Man Arrested for Alleged Role in Assault Leading to Death
AUSTIN — In a recent turn of events, the Austin Police Department has arrested a 41-year-old man, Justin Maurice Agnew, in connection with a serious assault that took place back in January 2020. This assault, which originally left the victim, Rene Luevano, hospitalized, ultimately contributed to Luevano’s death two years later, raising questions about accountability and the long-term effects of violence.
The Assault Incident
The incident occurred on January 31, 2020, just after 2 a.m., on Sabine Street, located in downtown Austin. As per court documents, Agnew and Luevano were known to be regulars at a local bar. Eyewitness accounts suggest that their interaction began amicably but soon escalated into a heated argument.
Witnesses reported that Agnew “took a swing” at Luevano during their exchange. As a result, he was ejected from the bar. However, shortly after this event, when Luevano exited the bar, Agnew allegedly punched him, knocking him out cold. The situation worsened when Agnew reportedly stomped on Luevano’s head before fleeing the scene.
Aftermath of the Assault
Following the assault, Luevano was hospitalized, where he was diagnosed with severe injuries, including a fractured skull. Over the ensuing months, Luevano began experiencing seizures, a condition that would not have developed had he not been assaulted by Agnew, as indicated by his medical records. To find peace after his traumatic experience, Luevano temporarily moved in with a family member in El Paso and later relocated to Chicago, Illinois.
Tragic Turn of Events
On May 3, 2022, Chicago police responded to an emergency call at Luevano’s residence. They discovered him unconscious on the couch. Sadly, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The circumstances of his death led to an examination by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, which revealed that Luevano had died due to “complications of multiple remote craniocerebral injuries due to assault.” The examiners identified his death as a homicide.
Legal Proceedings
The Austin Police Department continued to investigate the case until Agnew was arrested and charged with manslaughter on September 23, 2024. Following his arrest, he was booked into the Travis County Jail. However, he was able to bond out just a day later, on September 24.
This arrest sheds light on the ongoing issues surrounding violence and its long-lasting effects on individuals and communities. Agnew’s alleged actions could have ramifications not only for himself but also for the families and friends affected by the tragedy that unfolded from a night out.
Conclusion
As the legal process moves forward, community members and advocates are watching closely. This case serves as a stark reminder of how a single act of violence can ripple through lives, leading to devastating outcomes. The tragic passing of Rene Luevano is a significant loss for his loved ones and a cautionary tale about the dangers that can arise in seemingly innocent situations.
