Two people were killed and more than a dozen others injured in a shooting outside a popular bar district in Austin, Texas, early Sunday morning. Federal authorities say the attack is being examined for possible links to terrorism.
The incident unfolded around 2:00 a.m. local time near Buford’s bar, located in the city’s well-known Sixth Street entertainment area. According to Austin police, officers responding to reports of an active shooter encountered the suspect shortly after the first emergency calls were received.
Law enforcement officials identified the suspected gunman as Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal, according to multiple U.S. media reports. Authorities have not formally released a motive.
Police say the suspect drove by the bar in a large SUV, activated the vehicle’s hazard lights, and fired a handgun toward people gathered outside. Several individuals were struck on the patio and sidewalk. After parking nearby, the suspect allegedly exited the vehicle carrying a rifle and began moving back toward the scene.
Three Austin police officers confronted the suspect at a nearby intersection and fatally shot him. Officials later confirmed that no explosives were found in the vehicle after it was searched.
In total, three people — including the suspect — died in connection with the incident. Fourteen others were transported to area hospitals. Emergency officials reported that three of the injured victims remain in critical condition.
The FBI’s San Antonio field office is assisting in the investigation. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran said there were “indicators” found in the vehicle and associated with the suspect that suggest a potential connection to terrorism. However, he emphasized that the inquiry is still in its early stages and declined to provide further details.
Witnesses described a chaotic and frightening scene. Kelson Lee, 25, told local media he was nearby when the gunfire began. After stepping inside the bar to search for a friend, he saw multiple victims lying on the ground. He said the experience left him shaken and momentarily frozen.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis stated that officers were already patrolling the busy entertainment district at the time, allowing them to respond quickly. City officials said the entire confrontation lasted less than a minute after officers engaged the suspect.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson commended first responders for their rapid action, saying their swift response likely prevented additional casualties. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also condemned the violence, vowing that the attack would not weaken the resolve of Texans.
The shooting occurred in an area frequently visited by students from the University of Texas at Austin, located less than two miles from the scene. The Sixth Street district is a popular nightlife destination, particularly on weekends.
University leadership released a statement expressing condolences to the victims and offering support to students, faculty, and families affected by the tragedy.
Federal and local investigators continue to examine evidence as they work to determine whether the attack was ideologically motivated or connected to a broader threat. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward.
The investigation remains ongoing as the Austin community mourns the victims and awaits further updates.
