AUSTIN, Texas — Authorities are investigating a deadly weekend shooting in Austin’s entertainment district as a potential act of terrorism after a gunman opened fire on crowded nightlife venues, killing two young victims and injuring fourteen others before being fatally shot by police.
The incident occurred early Sunday along Sixth Street, a popular nightlife destination adjacent to the University of Texas campus. According to law enforcement officials, the suspect—identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne—initially drove past Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden before circling back and firing shots from his SUV at pedestrians and patrons. After a brief pause, Diagne parked his vehicle, exited with a rifle, and resumed shooting until responding officers neutralized him within one minute of the initial emergency call.
Investigative sources revealed the suspect wore clothing featuring an Iranian flag design and the phrase “Property of Allah.” The shooting followed recent military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, though authorities emphasize it is premature to definitively establish motives.
Diagne, originally from Senegal, entered the United States in 2000 on a tourist visa and obtained lawful permanent residency in 2006 through marriage to a U.S. citizen. Police confirmed he legally purchased both firearms used in the attack several years prior in San Antonio.
The victims were identified as Savitha Shan, 21, and Ryder Harrington, 19—a Texas Tech University fraternity member. University President Jim Davis confirmed several affected individuals belonged to the “Longhorn family,” referencing the university’s mascot.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the rapid police response, stating officers “definitely saved lives” by preventing further casualties. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security officials have joined the ongoing investigation.