A mass shooting outside Buford’s Backyard beer garden on west sixth street in Austin, Texas early Sunday morning left two people dead and 14 others injured, authorities confirmed. The suspected gunman was killed by Austin police officers at the scene, bringing the total fatalities to three, including the shooter.
The incident occurred just before 2 a.m. when the suspect, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, drove an SUV past the popular downtown bar multiple times before opening fire—reportedly with a pistol fired from the vehicle window—at patrons on the patio and outside the establishment. Officers nearby quickly responded, engaging and fatally shooting the suspect at a nearby intersection.
FBI Acting Special Agent Alex Doran stated during a Sunday briefing that investigators discovered “indicators on the suspect and in his vehicle that suggest a potential nexus to terrorism.” However, he emphasized it is “too early to determine the motivation” or confirm any terrorism link. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the investigation, with specialized teams processing evidence at the scene.
Of the 14 victims transported to hospitals, three were reported in critical condition. Authorities praised the rapid response of first responders and police for preventing further casualties in the bustling nightlife district near the University of Texas.
The investigation remains ongoing, with no additional suspects believed to be involved as at the time of this report. More details are expected as authorities continue their work.
