Shooting at Austin Bar Leaves 3 Dead, 14 Injured

Suspect killed by police after opening fire near University of Texas campus

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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At least three people were killed and 14 others injured after a male suspect opened fire at a bar in downtown Austin, Texas, early Sunday morning. The suspect shot at officers who responded to the scene, and was killed when police returned fire.

Why it matters

The shooting occurred near the University of Texas campus and Texas Capitol building, raising concerns about public safety in a popular entertainment district. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the United States.

The details

According to police, officers responded to reports of a male suspect shooting at Buford's, a beer garden in downtown Austin, around 2 a.m. on Sunday. The suspect shot at the officers as they arrived, and the officers fired back, killing the suspect. Three people were killed in the initial shooting, and another 14 were transported to hospitals, with three in critical condition.

  • The shooting occurred around 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • Police responded to the initial reports of shots fired within 57 seconds.

The players

Lisa Davis

Austin Police Chief

Robert Luckritz

Chief of the county's emergency medical services

Kirk Watson

Austin Mayor

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What they’re saying

“We received the call at 1:59 a.m. and within 57 seconds, the first paramedics and officers were on scene, actively treating the patients.”

— Robert Luckritz, Chief of the county's emergency medical services (nbcnews.com)

“I want to say... that I'm very thankful for the speed with which our public safety officials responded to this. I don't think there's any question that has saved lives.”

— Kirk Watson, Austin Mayor (nbcnews.com)

What’s next

Police are continuing their investigation into the shooting and the motive of the suspect.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the United States, and the importance of a swift and effective public safety response to such emergencies. It also raises concerns about the safety of entertainment districts near major university campuses and government buildings.