Deadly Texas bar shooting raises terrorism questions after suspect opened fire at Buford's Backyard Beer Garden
An overnight shooting outside Buford's Backyard Beer Garden in Austin, Texas, left multiple people dead and dozens wounded and prompted an FBI review of possible terrorism indicators. The incident and the law-enforcement response have produced differing details about the suspect's identity and the sequence of events, and investigators say the probe is in its early stages.
Timeline and immediate toll from the Texas bar shooting
Calls of an active shooter reached emergency services shortly before 2: 00 a. m. local time. One account states the initial call came in at 1: 39 a. m., with the first paramedics and officers on scene within 57 seconds. Officers found multiple victims on the patio and pavement outside the bar. Two people were killed and over a dozen injured; police shot and killed the suspect, bringing the death toll to three. Fourteen people were taken to hospital, and three of those were described as being in critical condition.
Sequence of events at Buford's Backyard Beer Garden
Officials describe a suspect in a large SUV who drove past the venue several times. The vehicle's hazard lights or indicators were activated before the occupant rolled down a window and fired a pistol, striking patrons on the patio and in front of the bar. The driver then parked nearby, exited with a rifle and began walking toward the bar and shooting at people passing by. Three police officers confronted the man at an intersection and returned fire, killing him. The SUV was searched and was not carrying explosives.
What investigators and officials have said about motive and identity
The FBI has said investigators found indicators in the vehicle and on the suspect that suggested a nexus to terrorism, but the acting special agent in charge of the FBI's San Antonio office emphasized the investigation is in its early stages and that detailed information is not yet being released. An FBI agent also stated it is too early to make a determination about whether the act was terrorism.
Some media coverage has identified the suspect as Ndiaga Diagne, described there as a naturalised American citizen born in Senegal. At the same time, police authorities have not released an official identification of the gunman. Investigative detail circulated that the gunman was wearing a sweatshirt bearing the words "Property of Allah. "
