Teen arrested in death of 16-year-old girl, allegedly shot her for "looking at him"

AUSTIN, Texas — A teenager was arrested after he allegedly fatally shot a 16-year-old girl at an apartment complex in northeast Austin Monday night. Police said the confrontation started when he accused her of “looking at him.”

Austin police officers responded to the reported shooting at the Bridge at Harris Ridge Apartments, located at 1501 East Howard Lane, just after 6 p.m.

Officers arrived and found 16-year-old Za’Riyah Sheffield with apparent gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased at 6:09 p.m.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE |Second juvenile fatally shot at NE Austin apartment complex leaves residents in fear

Detectives discovered the 16-year-old suspect allegedly accused Sheffield of “simply looking at him” and a verbal disturbance followed. It escalated until the suspect allegedly shot and killed her in the parking lot.

He fled on foot and was arrested later when he returned to the area.

APD said he has been booked and charged with first-degree murder. Police did not release his identity due to his age.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477.