Investigators say the victim was lured from school and assaulted in a garage.
DEL VALLE, Texas — Four 17-year-old boys face felony charges after authorities say they kidnapped and brutally assaulted a fellow student in February, luring him from school before restraining and beating him inside a garage in southeast Travis County.
Authorities allege the attack was planned days in advance and carried out by a group of former classmates. Investigators say the case involves serious accusations, including the use of a firearm, threats against the victim and his family, and evidence of coordinated actions that could lead to additional charges.
According to arrest documents, the incident began on Feb. 19 when the victim left school with several of the suspects under the pretense of getting food. Instead, the group drove to a home along FM 969, where another teen was waiting. Inside a detached garage, investigators say the victim was ambushed. One suspect allegedly pointed a gun at the back of the victim’s head while others bound his hands and feet with duct tape and covered his mouth. The victim told authorities he believed he would be killed during the ordeal.
Investigators say the group used multiple objects during the assault, including aluminum bats, a belt and a walking cane. The victim reported being struck repeatedly and threatened throughout the attack. Authorities also allege he was burned and forced to consume alcohol. Photos taken afterward showed extensive bruising across his body, consistent with repeated blows from blunt objects. According to affidavits, at least one suspect recorded parts of the incident on a phone.
The suspects allegedly told investigators the attack stemmed from a personal dispute involving a girl. Authorities say the group warned the victim not to contact police and threatened harm to his family if he reported what happened. After several hours, the victim was released and later reported the incident to law enforcement. Officials said interviews and physical evidence helped identify the suspects and establish a timeline of events.
All four teens have been charged with aggravated kidnapping with a deadly weapon, a first-degree felony under Texas law. One of the suspects also faces an additional charge of engaging in organized criminal activity. Court records indicate investigators believe the attack was discussed and planned roughly a week before it occurred, raising questions about how long the group coordinated the alleged actions.
School district officials confirmed the suspects are no longer enrolled in the district and described the incident as off campus. In a statement, district leaders said they are cooperating with the investigation and emphasized that student safety remains a top priority. The district said it would continue to monitor developments and communicate with families if the case affects school operations.
Students at the high school expressed shock after learning about the allegations. One student described the accusations as “insane,” noting that such violence is rare within their school community. The reaction highlights the broader impact the case has had among students and families, even though the incident occurred away from campus.
Investigators have not said whether additional suspects could be involved or if more charges will be filed. Authorities also have not released details about any potential digital evidence beyond statements that parts of the incident may have been recorded. Officials continue to review evidence and conduct interviews as the case moves forward.
The case remains under investigation, and the suspects are expected to face further court proceedings in the coming weeks as prosecutors evaluate evidence and determine next steps.
Author note: Last updated April 4, 2026.