Authorities in Austin have released harrowing body-camera footage and 911 emergency recordings from a deadly shooting incident being investigated as a potential act of terrorism. The attack occurred outside a popular University of Texas student bar, leaving three dead and sixteen injured.
The released materials capture the chaos that unfolded as a gunman opened fire with multiple weapons. Police Chief Lisa Davis described the footage as ‘difficult to see’ and ‘overwhelming for many,’ while praising officers who responded within 57 seconds of the first emergency calls.
Victims identified as Ryder Harrington, 19, Savitha Shan, 21, and Jorge Pederson, 30, were killed in the assault. The suspect, named as naturalized U.S. citizen Ndiaga Diagne born in Senegal, was ultimately shot by responding officers.
Investigators discovered significant evidence suggesting potential ideological motivations. According to media reports, law enforcement recovered an Iranian flag and images of Iranian leaders during a search of the gunman’s residence. Additionally, the suspect was wearing clothing resembling the Iranian flag beneath his hoodie, which bore the phrase ‘Property of Allah.’
The FBI has joined the investigation, examining digital evidence and potential terrorism connections. Chief Davis confirmed authorities are investigating whether there exists a ‘nexus to terrorism,’ though specific motivations remain undetermined. The timing of the attack coincided with U.S. military strikes against Iran, raising concerns about potential retaliatory violence against Americans.