Cops: Man pointed gun at children

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A homeowner in Avery Ranch is accused of threatening children with an assault rifle.

Police arrested Richard Yax, 40, for aggravated assault and possession of a prohibited weapon off Broadbay Drive in Northwest Austin on Friday night

Police said the children admitted they were ringing doorbells and running away before they claimed Yax chased them down the street and cornered them. They claim he pointed an AR-15 assault rifle at them; putting it six inches from one boy's head and threatening to "put a hole in their heads" if they did not return to apologize.

The mother of one of those children, who did not want to be identified, said her son, 12, is still terrified after the incident.

"It was scary because the kids were so frightened," she said. "They were shaking. I think we're going to go do some counseling."

The same mother called police after the incident on December 4.

When police searched Yax's home, they discovered the rifle along with armor-piercing bullets in a clip for the rifle, which are illegal to possess as a civilian.

"I'm shocked," said Frankie Mullen, neighbor. "I'm absolutely shocked. Chasing kids with a gun is a bit scary."

Other neighbors in the community said the incident should have been handled differently.

"Anything except pulling a gun," said Tim Lavin. "Call the authorities. Probably calling the authorities would have been the best bet."

Police said Yax admitted to chasing the children with the rifle, but denied pointing it at them.

Police discovered Yax had a warrant out for his arrest on theft by check charges.