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An FBI Task Force has taken charge of the investigation following a mass shooting that occurred early Sunday morning in downtown Austin, just under a mile from the Texas State Capitol. The tragic event left three people dead and injured 14 others.
The incident unfolded shortly before 2:00 a.m. at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West 6th Street, as the venue was preparing to close for the night, according to The New York Post.
The alleged shooter has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis reported that Diagne drove up to the bar in an SUV, switched on the vehicle’s hazard lights, and then lowered his window to open fire on patrons seated on the outdoor patio and those near the entrance.
The situation intensified when Diagne parked the SUV and stepped out wielding a rifle. Witnesses and officials recounted that he then began shooting indiscriminately at pedestrians passing by the establishment, as reported by WLWT.
Officers patrolling the east side of 6th Street reached the scene in just 57 seconds. Once on the scene, three officers fired at the suspect, resulting in the suspect’s death.
“Officers immediately transitioned, came over East 6th to West 6th Street, and were faced with the individual with a gun,” Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the first responders, saying their actions were “heroic” and that they “definitely saved lives.”
There is a possibility the shooting could be related to terrorism, according to acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI San Antonio Field Office, who referred to the shooting as “potentially” an act of terrorism.
“There were indicators that on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism. Again, it’s still too early to make a determination on that,” Doran stated.
As of Sunday afternoon, no victims have been publicly identified. The area surrounding West 6th Street remains a heavy crime scene as federal and local authorities continue their sweep for evidence, according to the Post.
The Austin Police Department encourages anyone with any information or videos to contact 512-974-TIPS, or submit your tip(s) anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at http://austincrimestoppers.org or 512-472-8477.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: Shutterstock]