New Delhi: Three people, including a 21-year-old Indian-American student, died after a shooting at a crowded bar district in Austin, Texas. Authorities are still trying to determine the motive behind the attack. However, investigators are examining possible ideological links after details about the suspect emerged.
According to the Associated Press, the suspect was identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne. At the time of the shooting, he wore clothing carrying an Iranian flag design along with the words “Property of Allah.” Law enforcement officials told the agency that the outfit has become a point of interest for investigators.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is examining whether there was a “nexus of terrorism” linked to the incident, according to a report by the BBC. Officials are also looking into whether the attack had any connection to the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States.
Shooting at busy nightlife district
The violence unfolded on Sunday at Sixth Street in Austin. The area is known for its bars, clubs and restaurants and attracts large crowds, especially students from the nearby University of Texas.
Police said the suspect drove past Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden before opening fire at people in the crowded area. Witnesses said panic spread quickly as people ran for safety and tried to hide from the gunfire.
Officers confronted the suspect soon after the attack. Police fatally shot him during the response.
Three people died in the incident. They were identified as Savitha Shan, 19-year-old Ryder Harrington and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson.
Victim was a university student
Savitha Shan was an Indian-American student studying at the University of Texas. She pursued a double major in management information systems and economics.
She studied at the McCombs School of Business and was expected to graduate in May this year. Her professor Russ Finney paid tribute to her in a post on X.
“Involved in student organizations – a light in the classroom. Absolutely crushing to lose her,” Finney wrote.
University officials also expressed grief over the loss of a promising student.
Authorities still examining motive
Investigators said it remains too early to determine the exact motive behind the attack. Both the FBI and Austin police continue to examine evidence.
University President Jim Davis said the pistol and rifle used in the shooting were legally purchased by the suspect several years ago in San Antonio.
According to the Associated Press, Ndiaga Diagne was originally from Senegal. He entered the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa. Six years later he became a lawful permanent resident after marrying an American citizen.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and are examining all possible motives behind the deadly attack.