Suspect Identified in Deadly Austin Bar Shooting

Authorities investigating potential terrorism links in attack that left 2 dead, 14 injured

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Investigators have identified the suspect in a deadly shooting outside an Austin bar that left 2 people dead and 14 injured. The 53-year-old suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, is a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal who had lived in the U.S. for 15 years. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the investigation, which is examining potential terrorism links as well as the suspect's possible history of mental health issues.

Why it matters

This attack has raised concerns about public safety and security in downtown Austin, a popular entertainment district. The potential terrorism angle has also heightened tensions, leading to increased security measures statewide. The investigation will examine whether the suspect self-radicalized or had any direct ties to foreign groups.

The details

According to police, the suspect drove an SUV around the block several times before stopping, activating his hazard lights, and opening fire on the crowded bar patio and sidewalk with a handgun. He later exited the vehicle with a rifle and continued shooting before being fatally shot by responding officers. A pistol, rifle, and additional weapons were recovered from the scene and the suspect's vehicle.

  • The shooting occurred just before 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • Emergency crews were already stationed in the entertainment district when the call came in.

The players

Ndiaga Diagne

A 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal who had lived in the United States for roughly 15 years.

Lisa Davis

Austin Police Department Chief.

Robert Luckritz

Austin-Travis County EMS Chief.

Alex Doran

FBI Acting Special Agent.

Greg Abbott

Texas Governor.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Greg Abbott, Texas Governor (bigtalkerradio.com)

“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.”

— Greg Abbott, Texas Governor (bigtalkerradio.com)

What’s next

The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force will continue investigating potential terrorism links, while also examining the suspect's background and online activity. Authorities will also review the suspect's mental health history.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting has heightened concerns about public safety and security in Austin's entertainment district, leading to increased security measures statewide. The investigation will focus on determining the suspect's potential motives and any potential ties to terrorism or extremism.