Rampage Erupts on Sixth Street (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Austin, Texas – A gunman unleashed chaos outside a bustling bar in the city’s nightlife district early Sunday, killing two people and wounding 14 others in an attack now under scrutiny as a potential terrorist act.[1][2]
Rampage Erupts on Sixth Street
The violence struck just before 2 a.m. near Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West Sixth Street, a spot popular with University of Texas students and weekend revelers.[1] Witnesses described a large SUV slowing down as it passed the bar’s crowded patio. The driver activated hazard lights, lowered his window, and opened fire with a pistol, striking patrons outside.[3]
He then parked nearby, emerged with a rifle, and continued shooting at people along the street. Chaos ensued as bar-goers fled, overturning tables and abandoning drinks inside. One witness, Kelson Lee, recounted seeing seven or eight bodies on the floor after ducking for cover.[1] The rapid barrage left two dead at the scene and 14 injured, three in critical condition.
Officers Neutralize Threat in Seconds
Austin police officers patrolling the entertainment district responded within 57 seconds of the first reports. They confronted the shooter at a nearby intersection and fired, killing him on the spot.[2] Police Chief Lisa Davis detailed how the suspect had driven past the bar multiple times before acting.
The quick intervention drew praise from city leaders. Mayor Kirk Watson credited the officers with saving numerous lives through their speed. Texas Governor Greg Abbott echoed the sentiment, vowing that such violence would not intimidate residents.[1] A search of the SUV revealed no explosives but uncovered items raising further questions.
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Suspect’s Background Sparks Concerns
Authorities identified the gunman as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal. He had entered the country in 2000 on a tourist visa, gained permanent residency in 2006, and became a citizen in 2013.[2] Diagne lived in Pflugerville, about 30 miles north of Austin, and had previously resided in New York City and San Antonio.
Investigators noted his attire: a sweatshirt emblazoned with “Property of Allah” and an Iranian flag emblem. A Quran was found in his vehicle. These elements prompted the FBI’s involvement.[3]
Terrorism Probe Intensifies
The FBI quickly classified the incident for review by its Joint Terrorism Task Force. Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran cited “indicators” on the suspect and in his SUV pointing to a potential terrorism nexus.[1] Though early in the process, officials refrained from confirming a motive.
The timing fueled speculation. The attack came one day after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, including the death of a high-profile figure. Federal agents searched Diagne’s home in Pflugerville as part of the ongoing inquiry.[4] President Donald Trump received briefings on the matter.
- Two civilians killed, 14 wounded near Buford’s bar on Sixth Street.
- Suspect Ndiaga Diagne, 53, killed by police after firing pistol and rifle.
- FBI terrorism probe triggered by “Property of Allah” clothing and vehicle items.
- Attack followed U.S.-Israel action against Iran.
- Officers responded in under a minute, praised for swift action.
This tragedy underscores vulnerabilities in vibrant urban nightlife zones, where past incidents have also marred Austin’s Sixth Street. As the FBI delves deeper, the community mourns and awaits answers on whether ideology drove the bloodshed. What are your thoughts on bolstering security in entertainment districts? Share in the comments.
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