A shooting in Austin, Texas, early Sunday left two people dead and 14 injured, prompting an FBI investigation into a possible terrorism connection. Authorities caution that the investigation is in its early stages.
Investigation Underway
The suspected gunman has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. Citizen originally from Senegal. According to four sources briefed on the investigation, Diagne had past ties to both San Antonio and New York.
Investigators are examining potential motives, including a possible link to recent U.S. Airstrikes against Iran. The U.S. State Department has issued a warning to Americans worldwide to remain vigilant for potential retaliation.
Details of the Attack
Austin police report the shooting unfolded in two stages. The gunman initially fired from a moving SUV, striking people outside a bar. He then drove further down 6th Street, parking and continuing to fire before proceeding on foot. Police responded within approximately one minute and fatally shot Diagne at an intersection, according to Austin Police Department Chief Lisa Davis.
Sources indicate that Diagne was wearing clothing with an Iranian flag design underneath a sweatshirt that read “Property of Allah.” Investigators are also considering the possibility of mental health issues as a contributing factor, though information remains preliminary.
At this time, authorities believe Diagne acted alone and had no connections to any state actor. According to Tom Petrowski, the shooter appeared to have accepted a fatal outcome, stating, “This was a form of suicide. He knew when he went there and started shooting, he wasn’t gonna come out of that alive or not in jail.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the investigation?
The FBI is investigating whether the shooting might be an act of terrorism, but cautions it is still early in the investigation. Investigators are looking into potential motives, including a possible connection to recent U.S. Airstrikes against Iran and the suspect’s mental health.
Who was the suspect?
The suspect has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. Citizen from Senegal. He had past ties to San Antonio and New York.
How did police respond to the shooting?
Austin police responded within about a minute of the initial reports. Officers fatally shot Diagne at an intersection after he continued firing although on foot.
As investigators work to determine if anyone inspired the shooter, the community grapples with the aftermath of this violent event. What steps can communities accept to address the vulnerabilities of public spaces?
