On Sunday, October 6, 2024, deputies from the Austin County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) responded to reports of individuals shooting firearms at road signs near Tiemann Road and Highway 159 West. A Bellville Police Department officer located the suspect vehicle in the 5000 block of Highway 159 West, leading to the identification and arrest of four individuals involved in the incident.
The suspects were identified as Asher James (18), Ronald Branter (20), Roberto Elias (21), and Elizabeth Kay (21). During the investigation, deputies discovered several firearms and open containers of alcohol inside the vehicle. The investigation revealed that the suspects had discharged firearms at multiple road signs in the Tiemann Road area.
Charges and Arrests
- Ronald Branter was arrested and charged with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct for discharging a firearm.
- Roberto Elias faced charges of criminal mischief, disorderly conduct (discharge of a firearm), and unlawful carry of a firearm.
- Elizabeth Kay was arrested for public intoxication.
- Asher James was charged with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct (discharge of a firearm). In addition to these charges, James was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for theft of property valued between $30,000 and $150,000.
The warrant for James was issued following an investigation by the Austin County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, which had connected him to the theft of stolen vehicles. As a result of the investigation, deputies recovered two stolen vehicles and secured the arrest warrant for James.
All four defendants were transported to the Austin County Jail, where they were booked on the respective charges.
The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damages and additional charges may follow.
