Gunman Kills 3, Injures 14 in Austin Bar Shooting

FBI investigating shooting as potential act of terrorism

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A gunman opened fire outside a bar in Austin, Texas, killing two people and injuring 14 others early Sunday morning. The suspect, whose name has not been released, drove past the bar several times before stopping and shooting a pistol out the window of his SUV at people on a patio and in front of the bar. The gunman then parked the vehicle, got out with a rifle, and began shooting at people walking in the area before officers shot and killed him. The FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism due to 'indicators' found on the gunman and in his vehicle.

Why it matters

This shooting is the latest in a string of high-profile gun violence incidents in the U.S., raising concerns about public safety and the potential threat of domestic terrorism. The attack occurred in a popular entertainment district, underscoring the vulnerability of crowded public spaces to such violence.

The details

According to police, the gunman drove past Buford's Backyard Beer Garden several times before stopping and opening fire with a pistol on the patio and entrance of the bar. He then parked his vehicle, got out with a rifle, and continued shooting at people in the area before being killed by responding officers. Three people were found dead at the scene, and 14 others were transported to hospitals with gunshot wounds, some in critical condition.

  • The shooting occurred just before 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

The players

Lisa Davis

Austin Police Chief

Alex Doran

Acting agent in charge of the FBI's San Antonio office

Kirk Watson

Austin Mayor

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What they’re saying

“It's still too early to make a determination on that.”

— Alex Doran, Acting agent in charge of the FBI's San Antonio office

“They definitely saved lives.”

— Kirk Watson, Austin Mayor

What’s next

The FBI will continue to investigate the shooting to determine if it was an act of terrorism. Authorities will also work to identify the gunman and his motive.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting highlights the ongoing challenge of preventing gun violence in public spaces and the need for continued vigilance against the threat of domestic terrorism. The rapid response by law enforcement likely prevented further loss of life, but the community will now grapple with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.