Kocurek's cases temporarily shifted
Judge injured in shooting has improved ‘every day.’
The seventh floor of the Blackwell-Thurman Criminal Justice Center was eerily quiet Monday morning.
All hearings set for Monday in State District Judge Julie Kocurek’s court, the 390th District Court, were canceled while she remains in treatment at University Medical Center Brackenridge after being injured in what Austin police investigators believe was an assassination attempt. Retired State District Judge Bob Perkins has been temporarily appointed to handle Kocurek’s docket through at least Thursday.
Kocurek was severely injured in the late Friday attack but was in stable condition on Sunday. In a statement, her family said her health continues to improve. Her injuries resulted not from a direct hit by a bullet but from shrapnel and glass.
Austin police said her attacker is still on the loose and authorities have not named any suspects.
Bill Rhea, a colleague of Kocurek’s husband at a local law firm, issued a statement on behalf of the Kocurek family Monday giving thanks for the outpouring of support she has received since the attack.
“The Kocurek family is grateful to everyone for their thoughts, prayers and support; the outpouring has been a tremendous source of encouragement,” Rhea said. “Judge Kocurek is receiving great care from a wonderful team of doctors and nurses. Their efforts, along with Judge Kocurek’s faith, are helping her improve every day.”
The attack happened in the driveway of Kocurek’s home in Tarrytown when she returned from a high school football game.
When the car carrying her arrived home, a garbage bag or a trash can was blocking the gate to the driveway, sources said. The attacker opened fire on the car when the driver exited the car to move the trash. It is unclear whether Kocurek or someone else was driving the car.
Investigators said the attack is probably tied to Kocurek’s work as a judge. Robbery does not appear to be a motive because the attacker never made any demands for money or property, sources said.
Kocurek has presided over the 390th District Court since then-Gov. George W. Bush appointed her to the bench in 1999. The court oversees major felony crimes.
Austin police did not provide any updates on the case Monday.
The Travis County Sheriff ’s Office also refused to comment on whether it had taken any actions to increase or alter security at the courthouse. Deputies perform security duties there, manning entrances and acting as bailiffs for the 14 criminal courts located at the Blackwell-Thurman Criminal Justice Center on 11th Street.