Austin Winn Death – Family members have now identified a man who tragically lost his life in a drive-by shooting on Mother’s Day in Midland. The Midland County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at the 10,000 block of South FM 1788 between 9 and 11 in the morning on May 12th. Upon arrival, investigators discovered the lifeless body of 26-year-old Austin Winn, who had succumbed to a gunshot wound.
The family of Austin is still seeking answers regarding this devastating incident. Witnesses present at the scene reported that Winn was found inside a vehicle near a truck stop off of 1788. Last week, deputies released a statement stating that foul play is suspected, and the case is being treated as a homicide.
According to Austin’s sister, Ashlyn Winn Jones, an employee inside the store heard gunshots and immediately contacted the police. Family members believe that this was a drive-by shooting and are determined to find the individual or individuals responsible.
Jones shared the last moments leading up to the tragedy, stating that her brother had sent their mother a text message wishing her a happy Mother’s Day and informing her that he would be home at 9:37. He had also been on the phone with his girlfriend, relaying the same message and expressing his plans to see her later that night. Between 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., the sheriff arrived at their parents’ house to deliver the devastating news that Austin had been found dead outside his truck.
Austin, originally from Tecumseh, Oklahoma, was transporting horses through West Texas in his vehicle at the time of the incident. Jones mentioned that he frequently stopped in the Midland area to refuel on his way home, as he made this journey one to three times a week.
This tragic event was not out of the ordinary for Austin, as his family has a long history of hauling horses and cattle. His grandfather had been involved in this profession for 40 years, his father continues to do so, and Austin had recently started his own venture in this field. With her husband working in the oil industry, Jones explained that their family frequently visits the Midland/Odessa area, making it a familiar route for them.
