A gunman armed with a handgun and rifle opened fire outside a packed bar in Austin, Texas, killing two and wounding 14. The attacker, wearing a shirt emblazoned with ‘Property of Allah’ and reportedly draped in an Iranian flag, has been linked to Islamic terrorism, say police sources.
Suspect Linked to Terrorism Over US-Iran Conflict
The suspect, identified by as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, an ex-New York City resident from Senegal, was apparently motivated by recent US strikes on Iran. FBI officials revealed at a press conference that the shooter had “materials that were indications of a potential nexus to terrorism.”
Authorities found a Quran in his car and confirmed he wore Islamic-style clothing during the attack. He reportedly wore an undershirt featuring an Iranian flag or its symbols.
Chaos Outside Busy Austin Bar
The shooting erupted just before 2am on Sunday outside Buford’s bar on West Sixth Street in Austin’s Entertainment District. Police Chief Lisa Davis said the suspect never entered the bar but fired from the street into the crowd.
Seventeen people were shot in total — two died instantly, 14 were wounded, and three remain in critical condition. Officers engaged the attacker, killing him in a shootout.
Officials Link Shooting to Rising Terror Threat
The attack came hours after US-led strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, sparking warnings that terror cells might retaliate on American soil. Following the strikes, Iranian officials vowed revenge against the United States.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the swift police response, saying, “I don’t think there’s any question that it saved lives.” Video footage on social media showed terrified patrons crouching inside the bar and police tending to the wounded outside amid heavy gunfire.
Ongoing Investigation into Motive and Victims
The identities of the victims have not yet been released. The suspect had a history of arrests in Texas and lived in New York City from 2000 to 2008. Police continue to investigate any further ties to terrorism. Paramedics arrived within a minute of the attack starting, highlighting the rapid emergency response.
This story is developing. Further updates will follow as authorities confirm more details.
