Staff Report
BUDA – Buda Police Department detectives served arrest warrants just after 1:25 p.m. Monday, Nov. 2.on 17-year-old Malikai Benjamin Jackson of Kyle for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and unlawful carrying of a weapon, following a shooting in Buda on Oct. 31.
As previously reported by the Hays Free Press, Buda police officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Hy Road, following reports of gunshots in the area, at approximately 10:14 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31.
Upon arrival, officers observed several vehicles leaving the area, where a large gathering was taking place. Officers located a juvenile male suffering from a gunshot wound. Two individuals were providing first aid to the victim when an officer arrived and applied a tourniquet before assisting with the victim's transfer to an ambulance.
The 16-year-old victim was transported to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition as of Sunday, Nov. 1.
Detectives with the BPD's Criminal Investigation Division responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. Preliminary information indicates that a physical altercation occurred, during which a firearm was displayed and discharged, striking the juvenile in the arm.
Through the investigation, detectives identified Jackson as the individual who allegedly displayed and discharged a firearm during the physical altercation. Probable cause was established for the offenses of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (second degree felony) and unlawful carrying of a weapon (Class A misdemeanor).
The warrants were served at the Hays County Jail as Jackson was in custody for unrelated charges, including possession of a controlled substance (third degree felony), possession of marijuana (Class B misdemeanor) and possession of alcohol by minor (Class C misdemeanor), stemming from an arrest earlier Monday..
As of 3:55 p.m. Monday, Jackson remained in custody, according to Hays County Jail records.
The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be filed as warranted.
BPD thanked the witnesses who provided statements and the community members who submitted video footage to assist investigators.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions. We hope it provides some peace of mind to the victim and their family,” Buda Police Chief Bo Kidd said. “I am proud of the responding officers and detectives whose efforts helped bring this case to an arrest, as well as the community members who came forward and provided valuable information and video. Their willingness to work alongside our investigators demonstrates the importance of community partnerships in keeping Buda safe.”
Anyone with additional information about this incident is asked to contact the BPD’s Criminal Investigation Division at (512) 523-1045. Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact the Hays County Crime Stoppers Hotline at 877-324-TIPS (8477), submit a tip through the P3Tips mobile app or visit callcrimestoppers.com.
