A shooting in downtown Austin, Texas, early Sunday morning left three people dead and at least 14 injured, prompting a terrorism investigation by the FBI. The shooting occurred near Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a popular entertainment venue, as police responded to reports of gunfire around 2:00 a.m.
The suspected gunman was fatally shot by police at the scene. Authorities have identified the shooter as Ndiaga D., a 53-year-old U.S. Citizen of Senegalese origin. According to a law enforcement official cited by CNN, D. Arrived in the United States in the early 2000s and had resided in multiple locations throughout Texas.
The FBI is investigating potential links to terrorism, with initial findings suggesting the suspect may have expressed pro-Iranian sentiments online. The organization Site reported that D. Had posted support for the Iranian government and expressed “hatred towards Israeli and U.S. Leadership” on Facebook dating back to 2017. A photograph circulating online, reportedly of the suspect, shows him holding what appears to be an assault weapon and wearing a sweatshirt with the phrase “Property of Allah.”
FBI agent Alex Doran stated at a press conference that investigators had found indicators suggesting a possible connection to terrorism, though a definitive motive remained unclear. No explosives were found in the suspect’s vehicle.
The shooting unfolded in stages, according to police reports. The suspect initially drove past the bar multiple times, firing from his vehicle at people on the patio and nearby. He then parked the car, exited and continued firing at pedestrians before being killed by police.
Three of the fourteen injured individuals were initially reported to be in life-threatening condition. All injured were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the swift response of the police, stating that their actions had saved lives. Security officials across the United States are on heightened alert following recent military actions involving the U.S. And Israel in relation to Iran.
The FBI investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released further details regarding the suspect’s potential motivations or connections.
