The Austin Police Department has disclosed new information regarding the murder of 40-year-old Francesca Ortiz, whose body was discovered at a South Austin apartment complex last week.
During a recent news conference, Detective Israel Pina provided updates on the investigation. Ortiz was found nude with signs of blunt force trauma outside Building 2 at the Waters at Bluff Springs apartment complex on the afternoon of June 17. Authorities have obtained Ring camera footage showing Ortiz walking around the building late the previous night, around 11:45 p.m., where she was seen knocking on doors. Police suspect she was attempting to meet someone, but it appears she did not make contact.
Detective Pina described the circumstances surrounding Ortiz’s death as “devastating” and a “shock to the conscience,” labeling the suspect or suspects involved as a “monster” and “very violent individual.” The motive for the murder remains unclear, particularly since Ortiz was found with valuable items still in her possession.
Evidence suggests that the assault occurred at the same location where her body was discovered. Additionally, Pina indicated that her body had been placed there shortly before it was reported to the authorities. The police have been in touch with Ortiz’s family, who are cooperating fully with the investigation.
Ortiz’s body was located in a grassy area behind one of the buildings at the Waters at Bluff Springs complex. Multiple 911 calls were received by Austin dispatch at approximately 1:37 p.m. on June 17, prompting officers to respond, where they found Ortiz with significant injuries. She was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after, at 1:50 p.m.
The investigation has revealed that Ortiz had been at the complex earlier that night, around midnight, attempting to visit someone. It is believed that between that time and the discovery of her body, she sustained injuries that ultimately led to her death.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about this incident to reach out to the Austin Police Department at 512-477-3588 or Capital Area Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS. They are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who were in the area between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, as well as anyone who may have had contact with Ortiz or knows her living situation. Additionally, investigators are requesting any relevant photos, videos, or recordings from security cameras or other devices in the vicinity.
This case marks Austin’s 29th homicide of 2026.
