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A uniformed security officer was involved in a fatal shooting at a northeast Austin H-E-B grocery store on Friday, according to Austin Police and a spokesperson from the store. The incident occurred at the H-E-B location on 500 Canyon Ridge Drive.
The security company Allied Universal, which provides security services at the store, issued a statement regarding the incident:
“As the world’s leading security and facility services company, Allied Universal is dedicated to helping keep our clients and their customers safe. We are aware of the incident and cooperating with local authorities. Since this is an active investigation, we ask that all further questions be referred to the Austin Police Department.”
Details of the Incident
The Austin Police Department (APD) received a trespassing call from the store, but while en route, multiple 911 calls reported a shooting had occurred. According to police, a person allegedly shoplifting at the store lunged at the security guard with a knife. The guard initially attempted to subdue the individual with a stun gun, but it proved ineffective.
According to APD’s investigation, the security guard was trying to remove the man from the store when the man used a tire hubcap as a shield and threatened the guard with a knife. After the man charged at the guard, the security officer shot him.
The deceased has been identified as Michael Rosario, 32. The security officer involved in the shooting has not been charged, and detectives are continuing the investigation. The incident marks Austin’s 47th homicide in 2024. APD is asking anyone with information to contact their tips line or submit anonymous tips through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program.
READ: Allied Universal CEO Steve Jones Raises $2.7 Million for Human Trafficking Victims
Legal Considerations for Security Officers in Texas
Security officers in Texas face complex legal challenges, particularly regarding self-defense cases. Attorney Richard D. Hayes, an expert in self-defense and Second Amendment cases, noted that security officers do not have the same legal protections as police officers. While officers have qualified immunity, security guards do not. This means that they are subject to harsher treatment under Texas law in cases involving the use of firearms.
“Security guards don’t have any additional rights than an ordinary citizen,” Hayes explained. “If there’s a reasonable, safe alternative to using force or deadly force, you should take it,” he added, emphasizing that self-defense claims are determined during trial, and those involved need to be cautious.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the case highlights the legal risks security officers face in self-defense situations in Texas. With no additional legal immunity compared to private citizens, security personnel must carefully assess their actions when dealing with potentially dangerous situations.
