AUSTIN, Texas — Federal authorities are investigating a deadly mass shooting at a popular downtown Austin bar as a potential act of terrorism after a gunman killed two people and wounded 14 others early Sunday morning. The suspect, who was killed by police at the scene, has been identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal.
The shooting occurred at Buford’s bar on West 6th Street at approximately 1:59 a.m. on March 1. The incident has drawn intense federal scrutiny due to the suspect’s attire and the timing of the attack, which follows a major U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran.
Suspect Identity and Background
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Austin Police Department (APD) confirmed Diagne’s identity on Monday. According to DHS records, Diagne entered the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa. He obtained lawful permanent residency in 2006 after marrying a U.S. citizen and became a naturalized citizen in 2013.
Law enforcement officials reported that Diagne was wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with “Property of Allah” and a shirt featuring the Iranian flag at the time of the shooting.
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The Investigation: A Nexus to Terrorism
While a definitive motive has not been established, the FBI has joined the investigation, citing evidence found on the suspect and within his vehicle.
“It’s still way too early in the process to determine an exact motivation, but there were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism,” said Alex Dorn, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office.
The timing of the massacre is a focal point for investigators. The attack occurred just 24 hours after a joint U.S. and Israeli strike on Iran that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Emergency Response and Victim Status
Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) reported a rapid response, with paramedics arriving on the scene within 57 seconds of the initial 911 call.
Casualty Breakdown:
- Deceased: 2 victims (plus the suspect).
- Hospitalized: 14 victims transported to local trauma centers.
- Critical Condition: 3 survivors remain in critical condition as of Monday morning.
Robert Luckritz, Chief of ATCEMS, noted that more than 20 EMS resources were deployed, clearing all critical patients from the scene within 24 minutes.
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Security and Community Impact
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis confirmed that Diagne was neutralized by responding officers and that no other suspects are currently sought. The West 6th Street entertainment district, usually a hub of weekend activity, remained a heavy crime scene throughout Sunday as FBI evidence recovery teams processed the area.
The investigation is ongoing as federal and local authorities work to trace Diagne’s recent communications and movements to determine if he acted alone or was influenced by external groups.
