Deadly Austin Bar Shooting Under Federal Terrorism Investigation

 

A mass shooting at a popular Austin nightlife venue early Sunday morning left two people dead and 14 others injured, prompting a federal terrorism investigation into the gunman’s possible motives.

Authorities identified the suspect as Ndiaga Diagne, 53, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal and a former New York City resident. Law enforcement sources said investigators are examining whether the attack was ideologically motivated, citing items recovered from the suspect’s vehicle and clothing worn during the incident.

The shooting occurred shortly after 2 a.m. at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, located near the University of Texas at Austin campus. According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, Diagne drove a large SUV around the block several times before stopping in front of the establishment. He allegedly began firing a pistol from inside the vehicle, targeting patrons gathered on the front patio as the bar was closing and hundreds of people were leaving.

After initially shooting from the vehicle, authorities said the suspect exited the SUV and continued firing at pedestrians along 6th Street. Officers confronted him less than a minute after the first shots were reported and fatally shot him at a nearby intersection. Two victims were pronounced dead at the scene along with the gunman. Fourteen additional victims were transported to area hospitals, with three reported in critical condition.

Federal authorities, including the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, are assisting in the investigation. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI’s San Antonio office said there were “indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism,” but emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages.

Sources familiar with the probe said a Quran was found in the suspect’s car and that he may have been wearing clothing displaying religious or Iranian-related symbols. Investigators are exploring whether recent U.S. military actions involving Iran played any role in the suspect’s actions.

Diagne reportedly arrived in the United States in 2000 and became a naturalized citizen in 2013. Law enforcement sources said he had prior arrests in both New York and Texas, including a 2001 arrest in New York City for illegal vending. Additional details regarding his criminal history remain limited.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed condolences to the victims and praised first responders for their rapid action, stating their swift response likely prevented further casualties. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also condemned the attack, vowing that acts of violence tied to international conflicts would not intimidate Texans or compromise the state’s security.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Tags: #Austin Mayor Kirk Watson #Texas Governor Greg Abbott

#New York City #Ndiaga Diagne #Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis,