Austin Shooting: Two Killed, Fourteen Injured on Sixth Street
AUSTIN, Texas – A tragic shooting in downtown Austin early Sunday morning resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left at least fourteen others injured. The shooter, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, is also deceased, and the FBI has joined the Austin Police Department (APD) in the ongoing investigation.
What Happened?
According to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis, the incident began just before 2 a.m. near Buford’s bar on West Sixth Street. Diagne reportedly drove a large SUV, circling the block multiple times before stopping and opening fire with a handgun. He then parked near Wood Street and continued shooting with both a pistol and a rifle as he walked east on Sixth Street.
Officers stationed nearby immediately engaged the shooter, ultimately killing him. Chief Davis confirmed that the suspect never entered Buford’s bar but fired shots from outside. Evidence, including the pistol and rifle used in the shooting, is currently being processed.
Victims and Injuries
Fourteen patients were transported to local hospitals, with two pronounced dead at the scene. As of Sunday morning, three of the hospitalized victims remain in critical condition. St. David’s HealthCare reports that at least four patients have been released.
FBI Involvement and Potential Terrorism Link
The FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the investigation based on preliminary evidence discovered at the scene. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran stated that specialized teams, including evidence response and digital forensics units, are assisting in processing the scene and analyzing evidence.
“Obviously it’s still way too early in the process to determine an exact motivation,” Doran cautioned. “But there were indicators that on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism.”
Rapid Emergency Response
A swift response from Austin Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) and the APD is credited with potentially saving lives. Paramedics embedded with police teams during peak entertainment hours were able to begin treating patients within 57 seconds of the incident. All critical patients were transported from the scene within 24 minutes, and all patients within 47 minutes.
“There is no question in my mind that the quick response of the police officers and of our EMS personnel and those professionals made a difference and saved lives,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to release more information as it becomes available. University of Texas President Jim Davis confirmed that students were among those impacted by the shooting.
Anyone who left personal items at the scene, such as phones, purses, or keys, is encouraged to contact Victim Services at 512-974-5037.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
For more information on emergency preparedness and safety resources, visit the FBI website and the City of Austin website.
