FBI Investigates Potential Iran Connection in Texas Bar Mass Shooting
Federal authorities are examining whether a deadly mass shooting at a Texas bar was motivated by recent United States military action against Iran. The incident in Austin left three people dead and fourteen others injured, according to police statements.
Shooting Details and Investigation Findings
The gunman, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, opened fire at Buford's Backyard Beer Garden during the early hours of Sunday morning. Diagne, who was wearing a hoodie bearing the words "Property of Allah," was subsequently killed by responding officers at the scene.
Investigators searching Diagne's residence discovered significant evidence suggesting potential ideological motivations. Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that authorities found an Iranian flag and multiple images depicting Islamic Republic officials during a raid on the gunman's home.
The timing of the shooting is particularly noteworthy, occurring just one day after the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran. Hours before the attack, it was confirmed that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had been killed in the strikes.
Background of the Suspect
Ndiaga Diagne was a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal who arrived in the United States in 2000. He obtained his green card in 2006 and completed the naturalization process in 2013, having lived in New York before relocating to Texas.
Neighbors described Diagne and his family as devout Muslims who kept to themselves. Todd Bruder, a neighbor, told local media that the family's vehicles displayed Allah decals and that a woman in the household wore a hijab when going out.
"I'm shocked that this happened here," Bruder said. "The family was quiet and seemed nice. They seemed like a normal American family living in the suburbs."
Authorities also revealed that Diagne was known to state officials due to previous mental health episodes, though the exact nature of these incidents remains unclear.
Official Statements and Ongoing Investigation
Alex Doran, acting head of the FBI's San Antonio field office, emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages. "Obviously, it's still way too early in the process to determine the exact motivation," Doran told reporters. "But there were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism."
Despite the discovery of Iranian symbols at Diagne's residence, sources close to the investigation indicated that authorities do not believe he was coordinating with groups linked to the Iranian regime. The investigation continues to explore all possible motives and connections.
Sequence of Events During the Attack
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis provided detailed information about the shooting sequence during a press conference. According to Davis, Diagne drove past the bar multiple times on Sunday before initiating the attack.
The violence began just before 2 a.m. when Diagne fired a pistol from his SUV window, striking several patrons on the patio area. He then parked his vehicle, emerged with a rifle, and continued firing as bar patrons attempted to flee to safety.
Davis confirmed that Diagne killed two people during the assault before being fatally shot by police. The identities of the victims have not yet been released by authorities.
Political Response and Security Measures
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that President Trump has been briefed on the shooting. Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a strong statement in response to the incident.
"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," Abbott declared.
The governor also announced that he has ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety and the National Guard to intensify patrols and surveillance throughout the state in response to the shooting.
As the investigation continues, authorities are examining additional evidence, including a copy of the Quran found in Diagne's SUV. The FBI and Austin Police Department continue their collaborative investigation into all aspects of this tragic incident.
