Austin Sees Shocking Arrest of Teen with Handgun in Downtown Bar Scare
Austin, Texas – In a startling turn of events early on November 12, a 17-year-old named Xavier Sistrunk allegedly attempted to access a downtown bar while carrying a handgun, leading to his arrest on multiple felony charges. This incident has raised eyebrows in the community and has left many questioning safety in the vibrant nightlife of Austin.
Midnight Mayhem: What Happened?
As the clock struck 1:30 a.m., bar staff from a venue in the 400 block of E. 6th Street alerted an Austin police officer about a young man trying to enter their establishment with a firearm tucked into his waistband. According to reports, Sistrunk was overheard chatting with a friend about the gun, with his friend suggesting he “just go put it in the car.” That conversation made the staff understandably uneasy, prompting them to turn him away.
Described by bar staff as a Black male wearing a red hooded sweatshirt with white numbers on the back, he was last spotted strolling down E. 6th Street toward Trinity Street. Thankfully, vigilant staff brought this to the attention of law enforcement, who quickly leapt into action.
The Chase and Arrest
While conversing with the bar staff, the officer spotted someone fitting Sistrunk’s description exiting another nearby bar. The staff quickly confirmed that this was indeed the person they had concerns about. As Sistrunk proceeded along E. 6th Street, he crossed an intersection where the crosswalk showed a red hand, indicating ‘stop.’
Officers stepped in, announcing their presence and detaining him for the violation. However, during the straightforward encounter, Sistrunk dramatically tensed up, dropping his hands toward his waistband as he attempted to reach for something tucked away. Officers commanded him to “stop reaching,” but he continued to resist, raising red flags to the officers.
It wasn’t long before an officer tackled Sistrunk to the ground, securing him with handcuffs. The tension peaked as officers searched him, unearthing a Glock .40 caliber pistol hidden in his underwear. To compound the significance of this find, the firearm was modified with a “Glock switch” that enables automatic firing—a concerning feature that raises the stakes in this case.
Cocaine Also Found!
As if the situation couldn’t get any more intense, a search of Sistrunk’s pockets revealed a small plastic bag containing 0.6 grams of cocaine. This discovery led to Sistrunk being charged with several serious felonies, including:
- Third-degree felony for places weapons prohibited
- Third-degree felony for possession of a prohibited weapon
- State-jail felony for possession of a controlled substance
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked concern among locals about safety in Austin’s nightlife scene. With the city known for its lively atmosphere, it’s troubling to witness such occurrences. Local residents and bar-goers are left wondering what measures are taken to ensure safety amid the bustling crowds and late-night festivities.
Looking Ahead
This alarming event highlights the importance of vigilance and community awareness. As Austin continues to grow as a hotspot for entertainment and nightlife, it becomes increasingly vital for both patrons and staff to remain alert to any suspicious activities.
As the legal proceedings unfold for Sistrunk, many in Austin are hopeful for answers and a renewed sense of security on their nighttime outings. It’s uncertain what the future holds for the 17-year-old and Austin’s nightlife, but for now, residents are hoping for safer experiences ahead.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise in seemingly ordinary nights out. With advocacy and awareness, let’s work towards a safer and more enjoyable experience for all in Austin.
