Police: Austin stabbing suspect suffered mental health issues

May 2 (UPI) -- The University of Texas student who went on a deadly stabbing spree Monday had been committed for mental problems before, police said.

Kendrex J. White, 21, "appeared normal" moments before he stabbed four male students as he walked "in a calm fashion" through campus, UT Austin Police Chief David Carter said Tuesday.

White, who appeared to choose his victims at random, had been "involuntarily committed" to a facility in another city and later released, Carter said. He offered no further details.

"His motivation, what was going through his mind, I can't answer at this time," Carter said. "This was not a conspiracy, not a person who had a vendetta against any particular group. He was obviously suffering from some type of particular issue."

Freshman Harrison Brown was killed in the attack. White reportedly kicked a female student out of his way before stabbing Brown, who was remembered as a talented musician by friends and family and "an inspiration" by the Graham Independent School District on its Facebook page.

Two other victims were treated and released from area hospitals. One remained hospitalized with injuries that are not life-threatening, authorities said.

White, described by former classmates as intelligent and easy-going, was taken into custody after the stabbings and charged with murder, Austin Police Chief Brian Manley said.

"Today our hearts are broken," UT President Gregory Fenves said, "and we have to begin the healing process."