USA: Austin bombing suspect killed March 21 /update 5

Event

The man believed to be responsible for the series of bombings that have taken place in recent weeks in the city of Austin (Texas) was killed early on Wednesday, March 21, in the Round Rock suburb. According to police, the man, whose identity has not been released to the public, blew himself up during a police operation; one officer was wounded in the blast. Police have said that they have not ruled out the possibility that the deceased individual - reportedly a 24-year-old white man - may have living accomplices. They also warned that the man may have potentially planted other bombs prior to his death, urging residents to remain vigilant.

Context

The deceased man has been linked with planting numerous bombs in Texas since March 2, which have left two people dead and five others injured. Three of the bombings targeted private homes in Austin, one was left with a tripwire on a street in Austin, and several bombs were found at a FedEx center in the town of Schertz, one of which detonated. 

The motive for the bombings remain unclear, though police have not ruled out the possibility that the attacks are racially motivated hate crimes; the first three bombings killed and wounded black and Hispanic residents who received the parcel bombs at their doors. However, the March 18 bombing in Austin was detonated via tripwire and wounded two white men, suggesting that the bomber was potentially indiscriminate regarding his target.

Advice

Individuals in Austin and surrounding areas are advised to report any suspicious activity or behavior to the police by dialing 911 and to not open any unexpected packages.