AUSTIN, Texas – A deadly shooting outside a popular Austin bar early Sunday morning has prompted an FBI terrorism investigation after two civilians were killed and fourteen others injured in a violent attack. The incident occurred approximately at 2:00 a.m. local time (0700 GMT) in the city’s bustling West Sixth Street entertainment district.
According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, law enforcement responded rapidly to reports of an active shooter near Buford’s Bar. The suspect, operating from a large SUV with emergency flashers activated, initially fired a pistol through the vehicle’s window, striking patrons on the outdoor patio and sidewalk. The assailant subsequently parked nearby and advanced toward the establishment armed with a rifle.
Three police officers confronted the suspect at a nearby intersection, resulting in the shooter being fatally wounded during the exchange. The swift police response, made possible by increased weekend patrols in the entertainment district, occurred within 57 seconds of the initial emergency call.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran from the FBI’s San Antonio field office revealed that evidence recovered from the vehicle and suspect indicated a ‘nexus to terrorism,’ though investigators have not released specific details pending further examination. The SUV was thoroughly searched and determined not to contain explosives.
Austin-Travis County Emergency Management Services confirmed three of the fourteen transported victims remain in critical condition. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the deceased victims or the suspected shooter, nor have they commented on potential motives.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the exceptional response time of emergency personnel, stating unequivocally that their rapid intervention ‘definitely saved lives’ despite the tragic outcome.