Trial date set for man accused of killing six in 2023 Austin, San Antonio shooting spree AUSTIN, Texas (WOAI/KABB) — A trial date has been set for Shane James, the man accused of killing six people across Austin and San Antonio in December 2023, with prosecutors announcing they will not seek the death penalty. James appeared in Travis County court Wednesday, where testimony is scheduled to begin Oct. 29 following jury selection Oct. 26-28. The trial is expected to last three weeks. James has been arraigned and pleaded not guilty. PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Shooting spree suspect Shane James ruled competent to stand trial He is charged with capital murder of multiple persons, capital murder of a peace officer, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and assault causing bodily injury in connection with family violence. James is accused of killing his parents in San Antonio before driving to Austin, where he allegedly shot and killed four more people and wounded three others, including two police officers. Authorities took James into custody Dec. 5, 2023, the same day as the Austin shootings. In October 2024, a Travis County judge ruled James incompetent to stand trial and ordered him committed to a mental health facility for treatment. He was ruled competent to stand trial in July 2025.