Indian American woman among two killed in Texas mass shooting

An Indian American woman was among two people killed in a mass shooting outside a bar in Austin, Texas, early Sunday morning. Police identified the victims as 21-year-old Savitha Shan and 19-year-old Ryder Harrington. Fourteen others were injured in the attack.

The shooting occurred outside Buford’s, a popular beer garden in Austin’s entertainment district. According to Police Chief Lisa Davis, officers received a call around 1:39 am reporting an active shooter. Authorities said the gunman fired from an SUV before stepping out and continuing to shoot at patrons seated outside the bar.

FBI Probes Possible Terror Link

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the investigation through its Joint Terrorism Task Force. Officials said indicators found on the suspect and inside his vehicle suggested a “potential nexus to terrorism,” though the motive remains unclear.

FBI Acting Special Agent Alex Doran said investigators are exploring all possibilities, including whether the suspect may have self-radicalised.

Suspect Shot Dead By Police

Multiple US officials identified the suspect as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalised American citizen originally from Senegal. Law enforcement sources said he had prior mental health episodes and is believed to have acted alone.

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Responding officers fatally shot the gunman at the scene. Authorities recovered a handgun, a rifle, and additional weapons from the SUV.

US President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident, while Governor Greg Abbott ordered increased security patrols in downtown Austin.