Two Identified in Deadly Austin Mass Shooting; 3 Critical, FBI Reviewing Possible Terror Link

AUSTIN, TX — Authorities have identified the two victims killed in the mass shooting along Austin’s Sixth Street entertainment district as 24-year-old Savitha Shan and 22-year-old Ryder Harrington.

Harrington was a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity at Texas Tech University, according to a statement shared by the fraternity on social media.

The shooting erupted outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden along West Sixth Street, a popular nightlife area near the University of Texas at Austin.

Victims and Medical Update

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said a total of 14 patients were located at the scene and transported to area hospitals. Three patients remain in critical condition, and one individual is expected to be taken off life support. At least four patients have since been released from local hospitals, according to St. David’s HealthCare.

Earlier reports indicated 17 people were treated overall, with 14 requiring hospitalization.

University of Texas at Austin President Jim Davis confirmed that some of those impacted are members of the university community.

What Happened

According to police, the suspect drove past the crowded bar before circling back and firing initial shots from his SUV at people on the sidewalk and inside the establishment.

Witnesses described chaos as students dove for cover near the bar and across the street near a food truck.

Police say the shooting briefly paused. The suspect then parked his vehicle, exited with a rifle, and began firing again before officers responded to the intersection and shot him.

Suspect Identified

Police identified the gunman as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne.

Chief Davis said Diagne was not previously on the radar of Austin police or the FBI. Authorities confirmed he legally purchased the weapons used in the attack several years ago in San Antonio.

53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne

During the attack, Diagne was reportedly wearing clothing featuring an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah.”

According to multiple officials briefed on the investigation, Diagne was originally from Senegal. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed he first entered the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa and became a lawful permanent resident in 2006 after marrying a U.S. citizen.

Terrorism Investigation Under Review

The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism.

FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran said federal authorities are reviewing the suspect’s criminal history, background, digital footprint, and any potential ideological or international connections, including items referencing Iran.

“Our ultimate goal in everything we do is to determine the motive,” Doran said during a news conference.

Officials emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages and that no definitive motive has been determined.

Ongoing Investigation

Chief Davis described the case as complex, spanning a large crime scene and involving extensive physical and digital evidence. Investigators are reviewing information from approximately 150 witnesses.

Because Austin police are also conducting an officer-involved shooting investigation related to the incident, additional information — including body camera footage — is expected to be released later this week, with video anticipated Thursday.

Davis said Austin police are coordinating with law enforcement partners in other major cities and that agencies nationwide have been urged to remain vigilant.

City Response

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson called the shooting a traumatic moment for the city but praised first responders for their coordination and professionalism. He also commended community members for supporting one another in the aftermath.

Despite the tragedy, city leaders said there are no changes to security plans for upcoming major events, including South by Southwest (SXSW), which begins next week.

Authorities say the investigation will continue in the coming days, with more details expected later this week as additional evidence and background information are released.