A devastating mass shooting at a popular bar in Austin, Texas, has drawn the attention of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force after two individuals lost their lives and 14 others sustained injuries late Saturday night. Authorities confirmed that the shooter was also killed during the incident.
FBI Acting Special Agent Alex Doran reported that initial evidence from the suspect’s vehicle indicates a possible link to terrorism, although the exact motive remains unclear at this stage. The shooter has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized American citizen originally from Senegal, who became a U.S. citizen in 2013 after arriving in the country in 2006.
Witnesses describe the suspect as wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with the phrase “Property of Allah” during the attack. Sources indicate he was armed with both a handgun and a rifle. The investigation suggests that Diagne acted alone, and officials are exploring whether he had a history of mental health issues that may have influenced his actions.
Authorities are scrutinizing the suspect’s background for any signs of self-radicalization or connections to extremist ideologies. The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) is collaborating with local law enforcement and the FBI to investigate any possible ties to international terrorism.
In a statement, President Trump was informed about the incident, which coincided with heightened tensions following a significant military operation involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The shooting unfolded at Buford’s, a beer garden located in Austin’s bustling entertainment district. Reports indicate that Diagne circled the area in an SUV before opening fire from the vehicle’s window and then continuing the assault on foot until he was confronted and fatally shot by police.
Austin-Travis County EMS officials reported that 14 individuals were hospitalized, with three in critical condition. Emergency responders arrived on the scene promptly, treating victims within minutes of the first reports of gunfire.
The investigation is currently being led by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as local and state police. Investigators have begun executing search warrants and are examining the suspect’s online activity for any possible insights into his mindset or intentions.
In response to the incident, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the activation of military resources under Operation Fury Shield to bolster security and surveillance in downtown Austin. Abbott extended his condolences to the victims’ families and emphasized Texas’s commitment to responding decisively to any threats.
Senator Ted Cruz acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the shooter’s motivations, stating that further evidence is needed to determine if the act was terrorist-related. Meanwhile, Austin’s Police Chief, Lisa Davis, expressed gratitude for the swift police response, which likely prevented further casualties.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information or video evidence related to the shooting to come forward and assist in the ongoing inquiry.
