A shooting in the early hours of March 1st at Buford’s, a popular outdoor beer garden in downtown Austin, Texas, left at least three people dead, including the gunman, and 14 others injured. The FBI is investigating the attack as a potential act of terrorism.
The shooting occurred shortly before 2:00 a.m. At Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West Sixth Street, an entertainment district known for its bars and live music venues, located a few miles from the University of Texas. According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, the suspect repeatedly drove around the block in an SUV before stopping, activating his hazard lights, and opening fire on patrons seated on the patio and in front of the bar.
The suspect then parked his vehicle on nearby Wood Street, exited with a rifle, and continued shooting at people walking along Sixth Street before being fatally shot by responding police officers. “Officers engaged a subject armed with a weapon,” Chief Davis stated. “Three of our officers returned fire, fatally shooting the suspect.”
Austin-Travis County EMS reported that three people were found dead at the scene, and 14 were transported to hospitals with injuries. Three of those hospitalized were listed in critical condition.
The suspect has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-vintage naturalized U.S. Citizen originally from Senegal, according to sources familiar with the matter. Diagne emigrated to the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa and obtained permanent residency six years later after marrying a U.S. Citizen.
Sources indicate the suspect was wearing clothing referencing Allah and a T-shirt displaying an Iranian flag design at the time of the shooting. A photograph obtained by Fox News shows the suspect armed with a rifle and wearing a hooded sweatshirt with the phrase “Property of Allah” printed on it.
Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran, speaking at a press conference, stated the agency was working with local police on the investigation and evaluating the incident as a potential act of terrorism. “There were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism,” Doran said, adding that it was “too early to make a determination” regarding a motive and that details could not yet be revealed.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the swift response of first responders, stating that the city would pursue a thorough and professional investigation into the reasons behind the shooting. “This is a difficult and traumatic time for our city. We stand with the families and victims of this tragedy,” Watson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “The quick response of our first responders and police saved countless lives. I am incredibly proud of them.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement offering support to the families affected by the “horrific attack” in Austin. “Texas mourns with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in last night’s horrific attack in Austin,” Abbott said. “Cecilia and I are praying for them and for the swift recovery of those injured. I have been in contact with Mayor Watson and DPS Director Martin and have offered all state support to ensure all assistance and resources are deployed.” Abbott likewise announced increased patrols and police presence in the Sixth Street District during weekends.
The FBI investigation is ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and assess potential motives.