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The gunfire erupted outside Buford’s, a well-known bar located along West Sixth Street. Police say the suspect drove around the area in an SUV before stopping and opening fire on people gathered outside the venue between 1:30 and 2 a.m. local time.
Emergency crews responded with remarkable speed.
“We received a call at 1:39 a.m., and within 57 seconds, the first paramedics and officers were on scene actively treating the patients,” said Austin-Travis County EMS Chief Robert Luckritz.
Officers ultimately confronted the suspect, and Diagne was fatally shot at the scene.
But what investigators reportedly found in the aftermath has intensified concerns that the attack may have been ideologically motivated.
The FBI confirmed that the incident has a “potential nexus to terrorism.” Acting Special Agent Alex Doran said Sunday that while the investigation is still in its early stages, authorities are taking the possible terror angle seriously.
“Obviously, it’s still way too early in the process to determine an exact motivation, but there were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism,” Dugan said.
Images circulating after the attack allegedly show the suspect wearing a shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Property of Allah.” Additional reports claim that a Quran was discovered inside the gunman’s vehicle. Sources close to the investigation also indicated that an Iranian flag and photographs of Iranian leaders were found at his residence. A local television outlet reported that the suspect was seen wearing an emblem resembling the Iranian flag during the rampage.
Law enforcement agents reportedly executed searches at properties connected to the suspect in Pflugerville and Del Valle as they attempt to piece together what led to the deadly violence.
The timing of the shooting is also drawing attention.
The attack occurred just one day after the United States carried out a series of military strikes targeting Iranian leadership. Those strikes reportedly eliminated top figures in Iran’s political hierarchy, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Officials have not confirmed any direct connection between the overseas military action and the shooting in Austin. However, the proximity in timing has fueled speculation that global tensions could have played a role.
The White House acknowledged the gravity of the situation. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Donald Trump has been briefed on the unfolding investigation.
Texas leaders also responded swiftly.
In a strongly worded statement, Greg Abbott expressed grief and resolve.
“Texas mourns with the families and loved ones of those who were horrifically killed in last night’s attack in Austin. Cecilia and I pray for them, and we pray for the swift recovery of those who were injured,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement.
He added a warning directed at anyone who might seek to exploit international conflict to target Texans.
“This act of violence will not define us, nor will it shake the resolve of Texans. To anyone who thinks about using the current conflict in the Middle East to threaten Texans or our critical infrastructure, understand this clearly: Texas will respond with decisive and overwhelming force to protect our state.”
Meanwhile, Ted Cruz urged caution as investigators continue their work.
Appearing on Face the Nation, Cruz acknowledged that many questions remain unanswered.
“we don’t know for sure” if the Austin shooting was terrorist-related.
“At this point, we don’t know what the evidence will show in terms of whether this was an act of terrorism,” Cruz added.
As federal and state authorities continue examining the suspect’s background, digital footprint, and possible connections, the people of Austin are left grieving — and watching closely.
Whether this was the act of a lone disturbed individual or something more sinister with international implications, one fact is certain: two families are now planning funerals, and 14 others are recovering from injuries inflicted in mere seconds of chaos.
Investigators say more information will be released as evidence is processed and leads are confirmed. For now, Texans — and the nation — wait for answers.
