Austin, Texas – Federal investigators are examining whether a shooting early Sunday morning that left three people dead and at least 14 injured was an act of terrorism, according to multiple law enforcement sources. The shooting occurred in a busy entertainment district on West Sixth Street, near Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, just before 2 a.m. Local time. The investigation into the shooting and the potential motives of the gunman, is ongoing.
The suspect, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. Citizen born in Senegal, was killed by police at the scene. According to federal law enforcement sources, Diagne became a U.S. Citizen in 2013 during the Obama administration. The Austin Police Department has confirmed the suspect’s identity, describing him as a Black male. The FBI is leading the investigation into a potential nexus to terrorism, a designation that suggests investigators are exploring whether the shooting was ideologically motivated.
Suspect’s Attire and Potential Motives
Investigators are focusing on several details surrounding the suspect and his possible motivations. Sources indicate Diagne was wearing a sweatshirt with the word “Allah” on it and an undershirt featuring the Iranian flag at the time of the shooting.
FBI says Austin bar shooting may have ‘potential nexus to terrorism’ https://t.co/qJq9q9qJ9q
— Fox News (@FoxNews) March 2, 2026
Fox News obtained a photo of the alleged shooter armed with a rifle and wearing the sweatshirt. The significance of these items is currently under investigation, and authorities are working to determine if they indicate a connection to extremist ideologies.
President Donald Trump has been briefed on the shooting, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The investigation is unfolding rapidly, with authorities examining Diagne’s background, online activity, and any potential connections to extremist groups. The FBI is too reportedly searching his home in Pflugerville, Texas, for additional clues.
Timeline of the Shooting and Initial Response
Police say the suspect drove around the block several times in a large SUV before opening fire outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. The area was crowded with people enjoying the nightlife, and the sudden gunfire caused widespread panic. First responders arrived on the scene quickly and began providing medical assistance to the wounded. Fourteen people were injured in the shooting, and three were pronounced dead at the scene. The identities of the victims have not yet been released.
The shooting prompted a large-scale police response, with officers from multiple agencies converging on the area. The suspect was engaged by police and shot dead at the scene. The area remained closed for several hours as investigators collected evidence and interviewed witnesses. The BBC reports that the incident has prompted increased security measures in the downtown area.
Conflicting Reports and Ongoing Investigation
Initial reports indicated two fatalities, but the FBI and Austin Police Department have since confirmed that three people died as a result of the shooting. As reported by the AP, authorities are treating the shooting as a potential terrorist act while continuing to gather evidence and investigate all possible motives.
The investigation is complicated by the need to thoroughly examine the suspect’s background and potential connections to extremist ideologies. Authorities are working to determine whether Diagne acted alone or was part of a larger network. The FBI is also investigating whether the shooting was inspired by recent events or was a planned attack.
Community Response and Resources
The shooting has shaken the Austin community, and local leaders have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families. City officials have pledged to provide support to those affected by the tragedy and to work to prevent future incidents. Counseling services and mental health resources are available to those who need them.
The FBI is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have knowledge of the suspect’s activities to contact the Austin Field Office. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
The next update from the FBI is expected within 24-48 hours, as investigators continue to analyze evidence and interview witnesses. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement. This incident underscores the ongoing threat of extremism and the importance of community vigilance.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this tragedy, please reach out for support. Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
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