Austin Mass Shooting Leaves 3 Dead, Investigators Probe Terrorism Link

Police release 911 calls, video as they investigate possible motive behind attack on Sixth Street

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Police in Austin, Texas have released harrowing 911 calls, surveillance footage, and body camera video from a deadly mass shooting on Sixth Street that left 3 people dead and over a dozen injured. Authorities are investigating whether the attack, carried out by 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, was inspired by recent US-Israel strikes on Iran after the gunman was found wearing clothing with Iranian and Islamic references.

Why it matters

The mass shooting on Austin's popular Sixth Street entertainment district is one of the deadliest in the city's recent history, raising concerns about public safety and security in the area. Authorities are also examining whether the attack had any ties to international terrorism, which would mark a concerning escalation of violence.

The details

The footage shows the chaotic scene as bars were closing on the crowded street, with 911 callers reporting 'people shot' and in need of immediate help. Video captured the suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, walking with what police described as an AR-15 rifle. Diagne, a Senegalese immigrant and US citizen, was not previously known to local police or the FBI, though he did have a prior 'check welfare' call related to his mental health in 2022. Investigators are examining Diagne's clothing, which included an Iranian flag design and 'Property of Allah' hoodie, as well as his criminal history and mental health records to determine a potential motive.

  • The shooting occurred early Sunday morning as bars were closing on Sixth Street.
  • Police released the 911 calls, video footage, and other evidence on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Ndiaga Diagne

A 53-year-old Senegalese immigrant and US citizen who carried out the deadly mass shooting on Sixth Street in Austin.

Lisa Davis

The Austin Police Chief who provided updates on the investigation and evidence released by authorities.

Ryder Harrington

A 19-year-old victim killed in the mass shooting.

Savitha Shan

A 21-year-old victim killed in the mass shooting.

Jorge Pederson

A 30-year-old victim killed in the mass shooting.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“His only interaction with law enforcement was in 2022 and that was a 'check welfare' and an outside agency. This call was reference: his mental health.”

— Lisa Davis, Austin Police Chief (CNN)

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the suspect's potential ties to international terrorism and any other possible motives behind the deadly mass shooting.

The takeaway

The Sixth Street mass shooting in Austin is a tragic reminder of the ongoing challenges communities face in balancing public safety, mental health resources, and the threat of extremist violence. As the investigation continues, officials will need to carefully examine all potential factors that may have contributed to this devastating attack.