Federal investigators are examining whether the deadly mass shooting on Austin’s Sixth Street early Sunday morning had an ideological motive after authorities identified the suspect as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, a gunman opened fire outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden just before 2 a.m. on March 1, killing two victims and injuring 14 others. Austin police officers confronted Diagne within seconds and shot him. He died at the scene, bringing the total number of fatalities to three.
During a press briefing, Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office confirmed agents are reviewing evidence for signs of terrorism.
“Obviously, it’s still way too early in the process to determine an exact motivation, but there were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism,” Doran said. “Again, it’s still too early to make a determination on that.”
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force joined the investigation Sunday.
Fox News aired images that appear to show Diagne wearing a hoodie that reads “Property of Allah.” Law enforcement officials have not publicly authenticated the image or confirmed whether the clothing relates to motive.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said officers responded in less than a minute after the first gunshots.
“Three of our officers returned fire, killing the suspect,” Davis said. “This is a tragic, tragic incident.”
Paramedics transported 14 victims to area hospitals. Three remained in critical condition as of Sunday morning.
Investigators continue processing the scene and reviewing digital and physical evidence. Authorities say they will release additional information as the investigation develops.
