Ndiaga Diagne Linked to Mass Shooting Outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden in Austin That Left 3 Dead and 14 Injured; Terror Probe Underway

A 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal has been identified as the suspect in a deadly early-morning shooting that left three people dead and fourteen injured outside a popular nightlife venue in Austin, Texas.

Authorities say Ndiaga Diagne, who was reportedly living in Pflugerville, drove around the area near the West 6th Street entertainment district shortly before 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Investigators allege he then opened fire from his vehicle toward crowds gathered outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden before exiting and continuing to shoot.

Officers from the Austin Police Department responded within seconds and confronted the suspect, fatally shooting him. Officials said the rapid response likely prevented additional casualties.

Emergency responders reported that 17 people were shot in total, with 14 transported to hospitals. Several victims were listed in critical condition shortly after the incident.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the investigation through its Joint Terrorism Task Force after items recovered at the scene suggested a possible terrorism connection. Authorities emphasized, however, that a motive has not yet been officially confirmed and that the investigation remains ongoing.

Reports indicate the suspect was wearing a hoodie reading “Property of Allah,” and investigators said a Qur’an was found inside his vehicle. While some observers have speculated about ideological motives, officials have cautioned that no definitive link has been established.

Law enforcement has not released additional details about the victims or whether the suspect had any prior criminal history. The case remains active as investigators work to determine what led to the shooting.