Local and federal authorities in Austin now believe the fourth explosion to rock the Texas capital over the weekend is linked to three other incidents in as many weeks; signaling the random attacks appear to be the work of a “serial bomber.”
According to USA Today, state officials are now offering a total of $115,000 for any information regarding the blasts; with dozens of police officers and FBI agents swarming the town as authorities race to find the culprit.
“These events in Austin have garnered worldwide attention, and we assure you that we are listening,” interim Police Chief Brian Manley said at a news conference. “We want to understand what brought you to this point, and we want to listen to you.”
Manley’s comments come as two people are dead, three people injured, and a 70-year-old woman was left fighting for her life after a string of deadly explosions shook central Texas.
“We’re hoping to encourage [the bomber] to come forward with the addition of this tip money that’s now available,” added the police chief. “The person or persons understand what that message is, and is responsible for constructing or delivering these devices, and we hope this person or persons is watching and will reach out to us before anyone else is injured or killed out of this even.”