Austin, Mar 21: The key suspect behind the spree of bombings in Austin, which have claimed two lives so far, was reported dead on Wednesday. The deceased, identified as a 24-year-old white male, detonated himself on being confronted by the police officials.

Reports said the alleged bomber was tracked at a hotel in Round Rock, north of Austin. After the police team reached the hotel, the suspect succeeded in escaping out via a vehicle.

His car, however, was apprehended by the SWAT personnel. On seeing his arrest imminent, the bomber killed himself with an explosive device, the Austin police chief said.

US President Donald Trump congratulated the security personnel for neutralising the bomber who had spread terror in the city over the past 19 days.

"Austin bombing suspect is dead. Great job by law enforcement and all concerned!," President Donald Trump tweeted.

The bombings began on March 2, and were subsequently perpetrated on five occasions till March 19.

The period was marked with terror for the Austin residents as theatres, restaurants and bars were evacuated on short notice based upon the inputs received by the police officials.

"The bomb threat had terrorised the city of Austin," Representative Michael McCaul said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 21, 2018 05:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).