Governor Greg Abbott addressed the public following a violent attack in Austin that occurred early Sunday morning. The governor expressed condolences to the victims and their families, stating, “Texas mourns with the families and loved ones of those who were horrifically killed in last night’s attack in Austin. Cecilia and I pray for them, and we pray for the swift recovery of those who were injured. I have been in contact with Mayor Watson and DPS Director Martin and have offered the full support of the State of Texas to ensure all assistance and resources are deployed.”
Abbott emphasized that this incident would not undermine the determination of Texans: “This act of violence will not define us, nor will it shake the resolve of Texans. To anyone who thinks about using the current conflict in the Middle East to threaten Texans or our critical infrastructure, understand this clearly: Texas will respond with decisive and overwhelming force to protect our state.”
He detailed recent actions taken to enhance security across Texas. “Yesterday I directed the Texas Military Department to activate service members under Operation Fury Shield to work alongside state and federal partners to safeguard our communities and critical infrastructure. Patrols have been increased at vital energy facilities, ports, and along our border. We have bolstered cybersecurity personnel and deployed unmanned aerial surveillance to monitor and protect critical infrastructure sites,” Abbott said.
The governor also ordered heightened law enforcement efforts: “I also directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas National Guard to intensify patrols and surveillance. Texas is relentlessly working with our federal partners to ensure every necessary resource is deployed to defend our communities.”
In response specifically to downtown Austin, Abbott stated, “And today, I directed the DPS to increase patrols and add law enforcement personnel in the 6th Street District in downtown Austin during weekends. We must ensure enough boots on the ground to discourage criminal activity.”
Abbott concluded his remarks by affirming resilience: “Texans are strong. We will not be intimidated, and we will not be terrorized. We will defend our state without hesitation.”
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott operates from its main offices at the State Insurance Building in Austin (official website). Since his election in 2014 (official website), Abbott has led initiatives focused on job creation, economic growth, education improvements, individual liberties protection, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, as well as border security (official website). The office has also contributed statewide services throughout Texas (official website) while receiving recognition such as being named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 (official website). Under Abbott’s leadership, Texas has seen significant employment growth (official website).
