Suspect identified in Texas bar shooting that left 2 dead, 14 injured
Suspect Identified in Texas Bar Shooting That Left 2 Dead, 14 Injured
Gunman Shot and Killed by Officers After Targeting Austin Patrons
Ashamed of his actions, the 53-year-old suspect in the Austin bar shooting was confirmed by multiple sources as Ndiaga Diagne. Police arrived at Buford’s bar, a well-known beer garden in the downtown area, at approximately 1:58 a.m. on Sunday. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis recounted that the suspect had circled the block in an SUV before the attack, according to a news conference.
“At one point, he activated his hazard lights, rolled down his window, and began firing from the car with a handgun, hitting people on the bar’s patio and in front of the establishment,” Davis explained.
Following the initial barrage, Diagne parked and switched to a rifle, shooting bystanders as he walked along West Sixth Street. Officers encountered him during this time and terminated the threat. Texas officials have not yet officially announced the suspect’s name, though local sources have identified him.
Background of the Suspect Revealed
Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized citizen from Senegal, entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa on March 13, 2000. He obtained lawful permanent resident status in 2006 through marriage to a U.S. citizen and later became a naturalized citizen in 2013. A Homeland Security official noted he was arrested in 2022 for a vehicular collision involving damage.
Investigation Uncertain: Terrorism or Mental Health Crisis?
Authorities are currently evaluating whether the shooting was a terrorist act or linked to the suspect’s mental state. Four individuals briefed on the case told NBC News that the probe is still in its early phase, with information subject to change. Preliminary findings suggest Diagne acted alone without apparent connections to any state.
“There were signs pointing to a possible link with terrorism in the suspect’s vehicle and belongings,” said Alex Doran, a special agent from the San Antonio FBI field office. “But we’re not ready to confirm that yet.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting in the investigation. President Donald Trump was informed about the event, though no additional details were shared. Governor Greg Abbott expressed condolences for the victims, vowing to safeguard Texans from threats, including those tied to the Middle East conflict.
Swift Response Saved Lives
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the quick actions of emergency responders, highlighting how public safety officials minimized casualties. “I’m deeply grateful for the speed of the response,” Watson said, emphasizing the critical role of paramedics in the entertainment district.
“We received the call at 1:59 a.m. and had the first paramedics and officers on scene within 57 seconds, actively treating patients,” said Robert Luckritz, head of the county’s emergency medical services. “That rapid action likely saved multiple lives.”
Officials initially reported three fatalities, including the suspect, and 14 others were taken to hospitals. Three of the injured remain in critical condition, according to Luckritz. The incident occurred just 2 miles from the University of Texas campus and less than a mile from the Texas Capitol building.
