IBNS-CMEDIA: New details have emerged in the deadly shooting at a crowded bar in Austin, Texas, that left three people dead, including 21-year-old Indian-American student Savitha Shan, media reports said.
The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, allegedly opened fire on Sunday night near Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on Sixth Street, a bustling nightlife hub close to the University of Texas at Austin campus.
Police said he was armed with a rifle and pistol before being fatally shot by officers at the scene.
According to the Associated Press, citing a law enforcement official, the suspect was wearing clothing featuring an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah” at the time of the attack.
A report by the BBC said the Federal Bureau of Investigation is examining a possible “nexus of terrorism” and whether there is any link to the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran. Authorities, however, stressed that it is too early to determine a motive.
The other victims were identified as 19-year-old Ryder Harrington and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson.
Witnesses said students and revellers ran for cover as gunfire erupted in the popular entertainment district.
The area, often packed with university students, descended into chaos as the suspect reportedly fired indiscriminately after driving past the venue.
University President Jim Davis said the firearms used in the attack were legally purchased several years ago in San Antonio.
Who was Savitha Shan?
Savitha Shan was a senior majoring in management information systems and economics at the McCombs School of Business. She was expected to graduate in May.
Russ Finney, an assistant professor at the business school, described her as one of his “superstar students” in a post on social media, calling her “a light in the classroom” who was actively involved in student organisations.
Investigators said the suspect was originally from Senegal and entered the United States in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa before later becoming a lawful permanent resident after marrying an American citizen.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack as the city mourns the victims of yet another mass shooting.
