A gunman opened fire at a crowded bar in Austin’s busy nightlife district early Sunday before being fatally shot by police in an attack authorities are probing as a possible act of terrorism. The shooting killed three people and wounded more than a dozen. A law enforcement official told The Associated Press the suspect wore clothing featuring an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah.”
The attack came after the U.S. and Israel launched an attack on Iran. The FBI and Austin police said they were still investigating motive as people inside the bar and on surrounding streets scrambled for cover.
Suspect fired, parked, then fired again
Police said the gunman drove past Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, circled back and opened fire from his SUV at people on the sidewalk and inside the bar. Some college students dove for cover while others remained motionless inside the bar and across the street near a food truck. The shooting paused briefly; the suspect then parked, exited with a rifle and began shooting again before officers rushed to the intersection and shot him.
University community affected
The bar is on Sixth Street, a nightlife hub near the University of Texas flagship campus, which enrolls about 55,000 students. Nathan Comeaux, a 22-year-old senior, said the crowd was “full of college students, probably mostly UT kids, shoulder to shoulder, hundreds just enjoying their nights.” University President Jim Davis said some of those affected were “members of our Longhorn family.” Police cordoned off several blocks around Sixth Street, and ATF and other federal agents joined local investigators.
Suspect background and weapons
Austin police and the FBI cautioned it was too early to determine a motive. Officials identified the shooter as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne. Police said he legally purchased the pistol and rifle used in the attack several years ago in San Antonio. Multiple people briefed on the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Diagne was originally from Senegal. Homeland Security records show he first entered the U.S. in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa and became a lawful permanent resident six years later after marrying a U.S. citizen. Reporters were unable to reach his family or ex-wife Monday.
Rapid police response
Weekend police presence is heavy in the entertainment district, and officers confronted the gunman within about a minute of the first call, Austin’s police chief said. Mayor Kirk Watson praised the quick response, saying officers and rescuers “definitely saved lives.” Comeaux filmed the suspect walking toward Buford’s with his gun pointed at officers as officers fired. He said police likely prevented far greater harm by stopping the shooter before he could return to the packed bar.
