Authorities in Texas are investigating a mass shooting at an Austin bar as a potential act of terrorism, amid heightened fears following US airstrikes on Iran. The gunman, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old Senegalese national and naturalised US citizen, was shot dead by police after opening fire in a downtown bar popular with university students. Two people were killed and 14 others wounded, some seriously.
FBI special agent Alex Doran stated that there were indicators suggesting a possible nexus to terrorism, though it was too early to make a definitive determination. The suspect, who was wearing a hoodie with the words 'Property of Allah', is believed to have acted alone. Investigators, including the FBI's joint terrorism taskforce, are examining his motives and potential links to organised groups.
The attack occurred shortly after US airstrikes in Iran. The suspect reportedly wore a T-shirt featuring an Iranian flag design. The Site Intelligence Group noted that Diagne had expressed pro-Iranian sentiment and hatred for Israeli and American leadership in Facebook posts dating back to 2017, including a picture of himself holding an assault rifle.
The victims were identified as Ryder Harrington, a 19-year-old student at Texas Tech University, and Savitha Shan, a 21-year-old student at the University of Texas at Austin. A GoFundMe appeal described Harrington as 'a beloved son, brother, and friend'. A vigil was planned for Monday evening.
In response to the escalating Middle East conflict, authorities across the US have stepped up security. FBI Director Kash Patel said agents were working 'around the clock' to keep Americans safe, while the Pentagon's Northern Command issued an advisory urging military bases to remain alert. The NYPD and LAPD have increased patrols at sensitive locations.
