Austin homeless camp fire was attempt to cover up murder: APD

AUSTIN, Texas - The Austin Police Department needs help identifying a victim killed in the first homicide of the year.

Police said on Jan. 4, around 3:50 a.m., officers responded to reports of a fire at a homeless camp in the green belt area near 1704 Nelms Drive.

When officers and AFD arrived, they found the tent had been consumed by the fire. Near the tent, they found a body. He was pronounced dead on the scene.

The victim has not been identified yet. Detectives said the victim was a white or Hispanic man with a possible nickname of "JT."

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APD is asking for help identifying the victim and for any information on possible suspects of the murder. 

The autopsy revealed the victim had trauma to his body. The cause of death was ruled a homicide and the manner of death was sharp force injuries. Police believe the fire was an attempt to cover up the murder.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. A reward of up to $1,000 may be available for any information that leads to an arrest.

This is an ongoing investigation.