FBI Investigates Potential Terror Link in Deadly Austin Bar Shooting

An early Sunday morning mass shooting at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West 6th Street in downtown Austin has left three people dead and 14 wounded. The FBI Task Force has taken over the investigation, with officials stating there are "indicators" suggesting a potential nexus to terrorism. The incident unfolded less than a mile from the Texas State Capitol, causing widespread alarm and prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

The chaos began shortly before 2:00 a.m. when the identified shooter, Ndiaga Diagne, pulled up to the bar in an SUV, turned on his hazard lights, and opened fire on patrons from his vehicle. He then exited the SUV, armed with a rifle, and continued to fire indiscriminately at pedestrians. Austin Police officers arrived on the scene within 57 seconds and engaged the suspect, resulting in his death.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis praised the officers' immediate and decisive actions, which Mayor Kirk Watson echoed, calling their response "heroic" and crediting them with saving lives. While the investigation into the potential terror ties is ongoing, authorities have not yet publicly identified the victims. The area around West 6th Street remains an active crime scene as federal and local agencies gather evidence.