UT Austin Student Critically Wounded in Austin Mass Shooting

Community rallies to support Rodolfo 'Rudy' Garza Jr. and his family as he recovers from gunshot wound

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:42am

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A mass shooting in downtown Austin on March 1, 2026 left 14 injured and 3 dead, including the shooter. Among the critically wounded was 21-year-old University of Texas at Austin senior Rodolfo 'Rudy' Garza Jr., who sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Garza's mother, Cynthia Hernandez, has temporarily left her nursing job to be by his bedside as he fights for recovery in the ICU. The Austin community has responded with an outpouring of support, including a GoFundMe campaign that has raised nearly $300,000 to help cover Garza's medical bills and other expenses.

Why it matters

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of gun violence, not just on the victims but also on their families and communities. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, victims and their loved ones often face significant emotional, financial, and psychological burdens as they work to recover. The community's response highlights the importance of coming together to support those affected by such senseless acts of violence.

The details

Garza, a mechanical engineering student on track to graduate in May 2026, was at the popular Buford's on 6th Street when the shooting occurred. Doctors are working to stabilize him, and his injuries are expected to require extensive rehabilitation and potential surgeries. His mother, Cynthia Hernandez, a single parent and nurse, has temporarily left her job to be at his bedside. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Hernandez has garnered significant support, underscoring the community's desire to help alleviate the family's mounting medical bills, lost wages, and basic living expenses.

  • The mass shooting occurred on March 1, 2026 at Buford's on 6th Street in downtown Austin.
  • Garza is currently in critical condition in the intensive care unit.

The players

Rodolfo 'Rudy' Garza Jr.

A 21-year-old senior at the University of Texas at Austin, majoring in mechanical engineering and on track to graduate in May 2026.

Cynthia Hernandez

Garza's mother, a nurse and single parent who has temporarily left her job to be by her son's bedside.

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What they’re saying

“In an instant, our lives changed forever.”

— Cynthia Hernandez, Garza's mother (GoFundMe campaign)

What’s next

Doctors are working to stabilize Garza and his recovery is expected to require extensive rehabilitation and potential surgeries. The community continues to rally around the family through the GoFundMe campaign and other forms of support.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of gun violence and the long road to recovery for victims and their families. Beyond the immediate physical injuries, victims and their loved ones often face significant emotional, financial, and psychological burdens. The community's response highlights the importance of coming together to support those affected by such senseless acts of violence and the need for comprehensive solutions to address gun violence.