Tragic Mass Shooting at Austin Bar Leaves Three Dead, 14 Injured

In the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2026, a deadly shooting unfolded in downtown Austin’s vibrant nightlife district, claiming the lives of two patrons and injuring 14 others before police fatally shot the suspect.

The incident occurred just before 2:00 a.m. outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West Sixth Street, a popular spot known for its beer garden and proximity to the bustling bar scene near the University of Texas campus. Witnesses described chaos as gunfire erupted from a large SUV that had passed the bar multiple times. The driver reportedly opened fire from the vehicle window targeting people on the patio and sidewalk, then exited the SUV armed with a rifle to continue shooting at passersby.

Austin police officers, already patrolling the crowded entertainment district, responded swiftly to 911 calls reporting an active shooter. Within minutes, they confronted the gunman at a nearby intersection and returned fire, killing him at the scene. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis praised the rapid response, noting it likely prevented further casualties.

The suspect was identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal. Authorities confirmed three people died in total: the two victims and the perpetrator. Fourteen others were transported to hospitals, with some in critical condition. Emergency services, including blood donations rushed from nearby areas like San Antonio, supported the response.

The FBI has joined the investigation, examining potential links to terrorism. Officials cited “indicators” found on the suspect and in his vehicle suggesting a possible nexus to international terrorism. Reports indicate Diagne was wearing clothing with phrases like “Property of Allah” and an Iranian flag design during the attack, and investigators reportedly found photos of Iranian leaders at his home. The shooting came shortly after U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, raising speculation about motive, though authorities stressed it remains under active investigation and too early for definitive conclusions. Some sources also noted Diagne’s history of mental illness as a factor being considered.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed gratitude for first responders and solidarity with the community, stating, “We will not be intimidated, and we will not be terrorized.”

This tragic event has shaken Austin’s renowned Sixth Street nightlife area, leaving residents and visitors grieving the loss of life and calling for continued vigilance in the city’s entertainment districts. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full circumstances and motivation behind the attack.