An FBI Task Force has taken over the investigation after an early Sunday morning mass shooting erupted in downtown Austin, less than a mile from the Texas State Capitol, that left three people dead and 14 others wounded.
The chaos began shortly before 2:00 a.m. at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, located on West 6th Street, was preparing to close, The New York Post reported.
The shooter has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne.
According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, the suspect pulled up in front of the bar in an SUV. He then reportedly turned on the vehicle’s hazard lights before lowering his window and opening fire at customers on the outdoor patio, and those standing near the entrance.
The situation escalated moments later when Diagne parked the vehicle and exited, armed with a rifle. Witnesses and officials stated he then began firing indiscriminately at pedestrians passing by the venue, according to WLWT.
Officers patrolling the east side of 6th Street reached the scene in just 57 seconds. Once on the scene, three officers fired at the suspect, resulting in the suspect’s death.
“Officers immediately transitioned, came over East 6th to West 6th Street, and were faced with the individual with a gun,” Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the first responders, saying their actions were “heroic” and that they “definitely saved lives.”
There is a possibility the shooting could be related to terrorism, according to acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI San Antonio Field Office, who referred to the shooting as “potentially” an act of terrorism.
“There were indicators that on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism. Again, it’s still too early to make a determination on that,” Doran stated.
As of Sunday afternoon, no victims have been publicly identified. The area surrounding West 6th Street remains a heavy crime scene as federal and local authorities continue their sweep for evidence, according to the Post.
The Austin Police Department encourages anyone with any information or videos to contact 512-974-TIPS, or submit your tip(s) anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at or 512-472-8477.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Shutterstock]
