Deadly Austin Mass Shooting: What Happened, Who Was the Shooter, and What Officials Are Saying

On the early morning of March 1, 2026, a devastating shooting unfolded in downtown Austin, Texas, shocking the city’s vibrant nightlife district and sparking a federal terrorism investigation. The incident left two civilians dead, 14 others wounded, and the suspected gunman killed by police at the scene.

Timeline of the Attack

Just before 2 a.m. local time, crowds were gathered outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a popular bar on West Sixth Street known for live music, food trucks, and nightlife.

According to police reports:

• A large SUV repeatedly circled the block. 

• The driver activated his hazard lights, rolled down the window, and began firing a handgun at people on the patio. 

• He then drove west, parked, and continued shooting pedestrians with a rifle as he walked down the sidewalk.

• Officers nearby responded immediately and fatally shot the assailant at an intersection.

Emergency responders treated victims within a minute of the first 911 call, transporting 14 people to hospitals, with several in critical condition. 

Victims and Casualties

Authorities confirmed that two civilians died at the scene, and 14 others were injured in the attack. Some of those wounded were university students and visitors enjoying a weekend night out in one of Austin’s busiest entertainment blocks.

The Suspect: Ndiaga Diagne

Police identified the shooter as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal. Diagne had lived in the United States for many years and was residing in the Austin area at the time of the shooting.

Investigators noted that he drove a large SUV and carried both a handgun and a rifle during the attack. 

Investigation and Possible Motive

Federal authorities, including the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, have taken the lead in the ongoing investigation. Officials said it’s too early to determine a definitive motive, but they have found “indicators” that raise concerns about a possible terrorism link. 

Law enforcement sources told media that items found on Diagne and in his vehicle have prompted investigators to explore whether extremist ideology or recent geopolitical events could have influenced his actions. 

Local and National Reaction

In the immediate aftermath:

• Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis credited officers for their fast response and praised first responders. 

• Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced increased security measures statewide, emphasizing protection against threats linked to international conflict. 

• The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump was briefed on the incident. 

Community Impact and Next Steps

This tragedy has deeply affected Austin’s community, especially students and residents who frequent the Sixth Street entertainment district. Authorities have asked anyone with video or photos related to the incident to share them with investigators to aid the case.

Officials continue to process the crime scene, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to determine what motivated the attack and whether it was an isolated act or part of a broader ideological influence.