Photo: Brandon Bell / Getty Images News / Getty Images
A shooting in Austin that killed two people and injured 14 others may be tied to terrorism, according to officials.
Reports say a Quran was found in the shooter’s car. The man was also said to be wearing a shirt that said “Property of Allah.”
The alleged shooter, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, 53, was also killed, making the death toll at least three. Officials said items that were found on the alleged shooter and in the vehicle indicate a potential tie to terrorism.
Police responded to reports of a male shooting at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden — near the University of Texas-Austin — just before 2 a.m.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the suspect, who was driving a large SUV, circled the block several times before stopping, turning on the SUV's hazard lights, and firing a handgun. Police said he then parked near Wood Street, got out, and continued shooting with a pistol and later a rifle as he walked east on Sixth Street.
Three officers who were patrolling the entertainment district responded to the scene in 57 seconds, confronted the gunman and “returned fire,” killing the unidentified suspect.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the investigation.
Governor Greg Abbott today released the following statement on the tragic attack in Austin that occurred early Sunday morning:
“Texas mourns with the families and loved ones of those who were horrifically killed in last night’s attack in Austin,” said Governor Abbott. “Cecilia and I pray for them, and we pray for the swift recovery of those who were injured. I have been in contact with Mayor Watson and DPS Director Martin and have offered the full support of the State of Texas to ensure all assistance and resources are deployed.
“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.
“Yesterday I directed the Texas Military Department to activate service members under Operation Fury Shield to work alongside state and federal partners to safeguard our communities and critical infrastructure. Patrols have been increased at vital energy facilities, ports, and along our border. We have bolstered cybersecurity personnel and deployed unmanned aerial surveillance to monitor and protect critical infrastructure sites.
“I also directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas National Guard to intensify patrols and surveillance. Texas is relentlessly working with our federal partners to ensure every necessary resource is deployed to defend our communities.
“And today, I directed the DPS to increase patrols and add law enforcement personnel in the 6th Street District in downtown Austin during weekends. We must ensure enough boots on the ground to discourage criminal activity.
“Texans are strong. We will not be intimidated, and we will not be terrorized. We will defend our state without hesitation.”
This is a developing story.