A 21-year-old Indian-origin student lost her life in a mass shooting in Austin on Sunday night. Authorities are now investigating whether the attack has links to terrorism, especially as tensions rise over the Iran conflict.
The shooting took place outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. Police said the gunman also died after officers shot him at the scene.
Victim Identified as University of Texas Student
Savita Shan was pursuing an honours degree at the University of Texas at Austin. The Austin Police Department confirmed her death. University President Jim Davis informed the campus community about the tragedy. He described Shan as a young woman ready to make a difference in the world. Jim said she was a devoted daughter and loyal friend. He added that the university community was deeply mourning her loss.
Professor Pays Emotional Tribute
Russ Finney, an Assistant Professor at the university, shared a heartfelt message on X. He described Savita as one of the brightest students at the institution. “It is absolutely crushing to lose her,” he wrote.
“Savitha was one of our superstar students at the UT Austin McCombs school of business - she was set to graduate this May, and then she was on to start her career at a big professional services firm. She was a double major with honors,” he wrote.
He also said that several other students remain in serious condition in hospital. He called it an extremely difficult time for the entire community.
Update Regarding West Sixth Street Shooting:
— Austin Police Department (@Austin_Police) March 2, 2026
The deceased victims have been identified as 19-year-old Ryder Harrington and 21-year-old Savitha Shan.
If anyone has video, audio, or any other digital evidence, please submit it via the QR code or this link:… pic.twitter.com/9MJ47qCr9Z
Gunman Identified, Terror Link Probed
Law enforcement officials identified the suspected gunman as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, an immigrant from Senegal. Authorities said he wore a white T-shirt displaying the Iranian flag and the words “Property of Allah.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is examining possible extremist connections. Acting Special Agent Alex Doran said there were signs that the suspect may have links to a terror group. However, investigators are still verifying the details.
Kash Patel, Director of the FBI, said he had directed counterterrorism and intelligence teams to stay alert because of the heightened threat environment.
“Last night I instructed our Counterterrorism and intelligence teams to be on high alert and mobilize all assisting security assets needed. Our JTTFs throughout the country are working 24/7, as always, to address and disrupt any potential threats to the homeland,” Patel wrote on X.
Other Victims and Survivors
Police also confirmed the deaths of Ryder Harrington, 19, who died at the scene, and Jorge Pederson, 30, who later died after doctors removed him from life support.
Meanwhile, one survivor, Karan Bhakta, a 21-year-old senior at the university, said a bullet grazed his scalp while he was spending time with friends.
Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack as the community grapples with the shock and grief.