The FBI announced on Thursday that the gunman responsible for a deadly mass shooting at a downtown Austin, Texas, bar in March acted alone, with no evidence of support or direction from any foreign terrorist group.
Investigation Findings
The agency released a two-page update on its probe into the attack at Buford's Backyard Beer Garden, which occurred in the early hours of March 1. The shooter, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, was killed by police at the scene. The incident left three people dead and more than a dozen wounded.
Investigators stated that Diagne was likely triggered into violent behavior by the recent U.S.-led military action against Iran, which culminated in what they described as a “violent, impulsive attack” at the bar. Diagne was wearing clothing adorned with an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah.”
No Foreign Links
While no direct motive has been established, the FBI determined that Diagne admired Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been killed. This affinity for Iran and its former leader were likely contributing factors to the attack, which he carried out independently.
“The investigation to date indicates Diagne was a lone actor,” the report stated. He had never been the subject of an FBI investigation prior to the shooting.
Diagne was born in Senegal and first entered the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa. He became a lawful permanent resident six years later after marrying a U.S. citizen, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
“There is no evidence at this time that he was associated with a Foreign Terrorist Organization or that he received any direction, funding, or operational support for his attack,” the report added.
Details of the Attack
The bar is located in a popular entertainment district. Police reported that the gunman drove past the establishment before circling back and firing the first shots from his SUV at people on the sidewalk and inside. He then parked, exited with a rifle, and continued shooting at pedestrians until officers arrived and fatally shot him.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis noted that officers responded within 56 seconds of the first 911 call and neutralized the shooter after he opened fire on them.
The victims were identified as 21-year-old Savitha Shan, 19-year-old Ryder Harrington, and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson.
The FBI confirmed that the investigation remains open.
