AUSTIN, Texas — Late Saturday night turned deadly on the city’s West Sixth Street as gunfire erupted just before 2 a.m. outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a bustling downtown bar popular with college students and nightlife crowds. Authorities say a lone gunman, later identified as 53‑year‑old Ndiaga Diagne, opened fire on people sitting on the patio and walking along the street, killing two young patrons and injuring 14 others before he was shot and killed by police. The attack has left a community reeling and searching for answers.
Friends and family of the victims described the scene as shocking and heartbreaking. Ryder Harrington, a 19‑year‑old student at Texas Tech University and a beloved fraternity member, was remembered by classmates as joyful, kind, and full of life. Savitha Shan, 24, was recalled by loved ones as warm‑hearted and ambitious, someone whose laughter lit up any room. Both were enjoying a night out with friends when gunshots suddenly tore through the energy of West Sixth Street.
Police responded to 911 calls within a minute, confronting the shooter near an intersection after he had fired from both a pistol and a rifle. Officers exchanged fire with Diagne and killed him at the scene. Paramedics and emergency crews rushed the wounded to local hospitals, where several remain in serious condition. Survivors huddled in doorways or ran for cover as chaos unfolded in a district usually alive with music and crowds.
Early investigation details released by law enforcement noted that Diagne drove around the block several times before stopping and beginning his attack, firing first from his SUV and then on foot. He had not been on law enforcement’s radar before the shooting, and authorities are still trying to understand what drove him to act. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are involved in the probe and have said they saw some indicators that could suggest a terrorism connection, though they have not confirmed a clear motive.
Friends of Ryder and Savitha organized vigils and memorials across Austin, sharing stories of their laughter, ambitions, and the bright futures that were cut short. Mourners packed the sidewalks near the bar, leaving flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes as the sun rose on a city struggling to process what happened in the early morning hours.
Bar staff and regulars described the night as normal up until the first gunshots. Live music, laughter, and conversations gave way to screams, confusion, and frantic calls for help. As word of the shooting spread on social media, community members near and far expressed shock, sorrow, and solidarity with the victims’ families.
Officials urged anyone who captured video or witnessed the shooting to share what they saw with investigators. In the aftermath, Austin’s leaders praised the rapid response of police and first responders for saving lives and preventing further loss. The community continues to grieve, united in shock and determined to support those affected by a night that began with promise and ended in tragedy.
