At least three people have been killed in a shooting at a Target store parking lot in Austin, Texas, in an incident authorities described as both “devastating” and “cowardly.”

Police said they received reports of the shooting at around 2:15 pm local time on Monday and arrived within four minutes to find three people with gunshot wounds. Two victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third died later in hospital. A fourth person was treated for injuries not caused by gunfire.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis told reporters it remains unclear what triggered the violence. Authorities have not yet released details about the victims. The suspect, described as having both a criminal and mental health history, allegedly stole a vehicle from the scene, crashed it, and then hijacked another car – a Volkswagen taken from a nearby dealership – before being apprehended in south Austin. Police say the arrest came after the suspect was subdued with a Taser.

“This is a sickening, cowardly act of gun violence,” Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said, adding that his thoughts were with the victims’ families.

Target issued a statement expressing sorrow and shock at the incident. “We are devastated by the violence at our Austin store and are working closely with law enforcement during their investigation,” the company said.

The shooting has left the parking lot closed as part of an active crime scene, with police advising anyone whose vehicle is inside to arrange alternative transport.

The tragedy comes amid a string of high-profile shootings in Texas this year, renewing debates about public safety and the role of firearms in everyday violence. For now, Austin’s residents are left reeling – and waiting for answers.