APD seeks tips in Barrera killing

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Austin police are seeking tips in the New Year's Day murder of Esme Barrera, 29, in her Central Austin home, while people who live in the area remain on edge.

"I'm definitely nervous to walk by myself," said Krissy Fosen, who walks with her nephew in the area. "Everybody's really shook up around here and nervous."

Barrera was killed in her home on New Year's Day just before 3:00 a.m. Police have not said how she was killed and continue to search for her attacker.

"Unfortunately, we do not yet have a suspect in custody," said a news release from the APD Homicide Unit Friday. "However, numerous tops have been provided from a multitude of sources and each and every tip is a potential lead to identifying the person who took Esmerelda away from her family and the people who love her."

Austin police are regularly patrolling the neighborhood, but Mike Hatchett still fears for his daughter's safety.

"A little bit, yeah," said Hatchett. " Generally would consider this a safe neighborhood and I'm sure it was a random event, but we're definitely taking extra precautions."

Austin police are warning people in the area not to walk alone and to always carry a cell phone. Additionally, the recommend always locking your doors and setting a security alarm if you have one.

Investigators are asking anyone with information about the Barrera killing- or other attacks reported in the area around the same time, to call APD homicide investigators at 512-477-3588.