07/04/2025 - On Thursday, July 3, 2025, at approximately 7 p.m., the Leander Police Department responded to a report of a deceased individual at a residence in the 2200 block of Hilltop Climb Drive. The caller advised that she had gone to check on the resident after being unable to reach him for several days. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased male inside the home.

While securing the scene, officers observed burn damage within the living room area. Due to the uncertain origin of the damage - whether from a small explosion or a fire -officers evacuated the residence and nearby homes out of an abundance of caution.

The Austin Police Department's Bomb Squad was contacted, responded to the scene, and subsequently cleared the residence. Leander Police Department personnel, along with the Leander Fire Department, then entered the home to conduct a joint investigation.

Preliminary findings indicate that the damage resulted from a fire that originated on the living room couch and did not spread to other parts of the home. The deceased male was located near the couch.

At this time, the preliminary indication is that this was accidental in nature; however, the investigation remains ongoing. There is no threat to the public.

LPD officials expressed appreciation for the cooperation and understanding of the neighboring residents who promptly evacuated when requested.

The deceased has been identified as Samuel Tyson, a 67-year-old resident of Leander.

For further media inquiries, please contact Lt. Mike Mohler at 512-528-2843 and reference Case #25-1660.