AUSTIN, Texas — A mass shooting in the heart of Austin’s West Sixth Street entertainment district left three people dead—including the gunman—and 14 others wounded early Sunday morning.
Federal investigators have joined local police to determine if the attack, which occurred just as bars were closing, has a “nexus to terrorism.”
The Incident
The shooting began at approximately 1:58 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, a suspect in a large SUV circled the block several times before stopping, activating hazard lights, and opening fire with a pistol from the vehicle window.
The gunman then reportedly parked his vehicle near Wood Street, exited, and continued firing at pedestrians with a rifle. Austin police officers, who were already patrolling the busy nightlife corridor, responded within 57 seconds. Three officers confronted the suspect and fatally shot him on the scene.
The Victims and Suspect
- Deceased: Three people were pronounced dead at the scene, including the suspected gunman and two bystanders.
- Injured: 14 victims were transported to local hospitals. As of Monday, three remain in critical condition.
- The Suspect: Authorities have identified the shooter as Ndiaga Diagne, 53, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal.
Investigation: Potential Terrorism Links
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is leading a deep dive into Diagne’s motives. Several “indicators” found at the scene and during subsequent searches have raised alarms:
- Attire: At the time of the shooting, Diagne was reportedly wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with “Property of Allah” and an undershirt featuring the Iranian flag.
- Evidence: A search of his vehicle uncovered a Quran, while a search warrant executed at his home in Pflugerville revealed an Iranian flag and photographs of Iranian leaders.
- Timing: The attack occurred just one day after significant U.S. and Israeli military strikes in the Middle East.
While the FBI has not officially classified the event as terrorism, Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran stated, “There were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism.” Investigators are also looking into Diagne’s history of mental health issues.
Community Reaction
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the “heroic” and rapid response of first responders, noting that their actions undoubtedly saved lives. Meanwhile, University of Texas at Austin President Jim Davis confirmed that members of the “Longhorn family” were among those present during the tragedy.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase patrols in the Sixth Street District in response to the violence.