Elon Musk has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform his Austin headquarters into a thriving Texas city, focusing on innovation and sustainable growth. The vision includes expanding infrastructure and creating a self-sustaining community centered around technology and industry.

AUSTIN, Texas (KWTX) – Several people were arrested in separate incidents during a shoplifting operation near the Austin mall.

In the first incident, police say officers were informed that four people inside the Khol’s at 11111 Lakeline Blvd. were putting items in a baby stroller in an attempt to steal them.

Police say officers arrived on scene as the suspects were leaving the store with the stolen items.

The suspects, according to police, attempted to run away while leaving the stroller of stolen items behind, but were arrested shortly after.

Officers recovered $1,100 in merchandise from the stroller and an additional $1,200 in stole merchandise from two other stores in the suspect’s vehicle.

Melain Gomez, 20, Alexis Garza, 25, Jessica Gomez, 23, and Jesus Jimenez-Gomez, 22, were each charged with engaging in organized criminal activity and taken to the Williamson County Jail.

In the second incident, police say officers received information that a high value repeat offender, identified as Javier Rios, was inside the Lowe’s at 13201 North FM 620.

Police say officers arrived on scene as Rios, 41, left the store with a stolen AC unit valued at $2,156.

Rios was subsequently arrested for theft and two outstanding warrants charging larceny, according to police.

Additionally, police say officers found a shower kit in Rios’ vehicle valued at $609 that was stolen from a separate Lowe’s on the same day.

In the third incident, police say officers were sent the Target at 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive on reports of a known theft suspect who was taking anti-theft devices off electronics in the store.

Police say the suspect, identified as Donovan Clausen, left the store with multiple stolen items and employees attempted to stop him.

Clausen fled the scene on foot but was later arrested by police near a vehicle where he met a woman, according to police.

Officers, according to police, recovered $613.70 in stolen items.

Additionally, police say officers found more stolen items and narcotics inside the vehicle.

The additional stolen items were determined to be jewelry and beauty items taken from Target and Khol’s valued at $1,050.

Clausen is charged with theft and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

The woman, identified as 44-year-old Christina Shell, was arrested and charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

In the final incident, police say employees at the Target at 10900 Lakeline Mall Drive reported a known high value repeat offender, identified as Martin Morales, was loading a shopping cart with items inside the store.

Morales, 54, according to police, pushed the cart outside and was confronted by an employee.

After this, police say Morales left the shopping cart and entered a vehicle in the parking lot.

The vehicle left the area as officers arrived on scene, but police say officers later found and stopped the vehicle.

Morales was subsequently arrested for theft and the driver of the vehicle, identified as 44-year-old Crystal Overby, was arrested on an active warrant.

In total, police say they recovered $7,500 in stolen items from the incidents.

Copyright 2024 KWTX. All rights reserved.

2024 had many air service milestones for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). With new airlines, exciting milestones, and 11 nonstop destinations added to AUS, we’re continuing to elevate your travel experience. Let’s dive into what made this year special and celebrate some major highlights together.

New Airline Partner: Viva Aerobus!

We were thrilled to welcome Viva Aerobus to the AUS family this year! This dynamic, low-cost airline launched nonstop service to Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) on March 22, 2024. Monterrey—known for its breathtaking mountains, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine—became more accessible than ever. With Viva Aerobus offering affordable and convenient flights, Austin travelers now have an incredible new destination to explore.

This isn’t the first time Monterrey has been in the spotlight at AUS. Viva Aerobus initially launched nonstop service to MTY on March 3, 2022, and the route grew immensely in popularity. Now, it’s back and better than ever, providing an even stronger connection between Austin and this vibrant Mexican city.

Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a business trip, or a culinary adventure, Monterrey is waiting for you. We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership and what it means for our community.

Celebrating 10 Years with British Airways

Let’s raise a glass (or a cup of tea)! British Airways celebrated its 10th anniversary at AUS. For a decade, they’ve connected Austinites to London Heathrow (LHR), one of the world’s busiest and most iconic airports. This nonstop service has been a gateway to Europe for travelers from Austin, making it easier than ever to explore destinations across the U.K., Europe, and beyond.

Over the past 10 years, British Airways has become more than just an airline partner; they’ve been an integral part of the AUS story. From their outstanding service to their state-of-the-art aircraft, they’ve continually raised the bar for international travel from Austin. Here’s to 10 more years (and beyond) of connecting Austin to the world!

Expanding Nonstop Service: 11 New Destinations in 2024

In 2024, airlines added 11 new nonstop destinations to AUS. Here’s a closer look at where you can fly next:

• San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU): Launched on March 9, 2024, Southwest Airlines will take you to this tropical paradise.
• Monterrey, Mexico (MTY):  Launched on March 22, 2024, Viva Aerobus made its grand return.
• McAllen, TX (MFE): Delta Air Lines launched this route on April 22, 2024, bringing the Rio Grande Valley closer than ever.
• Midland, TX (MAF): Also serviced by Delta Air Lines, launched on April 22, 2024, perfect for West Texas travelers.
• Nashville, TN (BNA): Music lovers rejoice! Delta Air Lines added this nonstop route on April 22, 2024.
• Montreal, Canada (YUL): Air Canada now connects Austin to this cultural gem, launched on May 3, 2024.
• Cleveland, OH (CLE): Frontier Airlines launched this nonstop service on May 16, 2024.
• Boston, MA (BOS): Explore historic Boston with Southwest Airlines, launched on June 8, 2024.
• Harlingen, TX: Delta Air Lines launched this route on October 7, 2024.
• Atlanta, GA (ATL): Frontier Airlines added this nonstop service on October 11, 2024.
• Omaha, NE (OMA): Launched on November 23, 2024, Southwest Airlines now makes it easy to visit this Midwestern hub.

With these additions, AUS offers 85 nonstop destinations, making flying wherever life takes you easier than ever.

Why These Milestones Matter

Every new destination and milestone represents growth, opportunity, and connection. Whether it’s expanding AUS’s reach with Viva Aerobus, celebrating a decade of excellence with British Airways, or adding 11 new nonstop routes, these achievements reflect our commitment to serving the needs of our growing region.

AUS is proud to be your gateway to the world and to bring you more ways to explore, connect, and experience life. Here’s to another incredible year of flying with AUS!

Where will you go next? For more nonstop flights from AUS, visit www.austintexas.gov/department/nonstop-flights-out-aus.