A 21-year-old Indian-American student was among the victims killed in a mass shooting in downtown Austin, Texas, on Sunday, as authorities investigate possible links to terrorism.
Savitha Shan, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin, died when a gunman opened fire in the city’s West Sixth Street entertainment district, leaving at least three others dead and 14 injured.
Police identified the shooter as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a naturalised US citizen originally from Senegal.
It is reported that the officers said Diagne, who was wearing clothing bearing an Iranian flag and the words “Property of Allah,” first fired from an SUV outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden before exiting the vehicle with a rifle.
Diagne was killed by police at the scene.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said investigators had discovered items suggesting a “potential nexus to terrorism” in the suspect’s possession.
FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X that counterterrorism teams had been placed on high alert following the attack.
Shan, whose legal name was Shanmugasundaram, was pursuing a dual degree in Management Information Systems and Economics and was months from graduating. University of Texas President Jim Davis described her as “a child of loving parents, a loyal friend to many, and a Longhorn preparing to change the world.”
Russ Finney, assistant professor at the University of Texas’ McCombs School of Business, described Savitha Shan as “one of our superstar students” who was “set to graduate this May” and begin her career at a major professional services firm. He said Shan, a double major with honours, was “involved in student organisations – a light in the classroom. Absolutely crushing to lose her.”
Finney added that the shooting site, located on West Sixth Street, was considered a safe area by students.
“Really no words to express the wave of sadness rolling over @UTexasMcCombs and @UTAustin. Other students are still in the hospital in very serious conditions – this is a very tough week for our community, the families, and #ATX in general.”
The shooting took place shortly before 2 a.m. on Sunday. Witnesses described a crowded bar and patio filled with college students, many from the University of Texas, who ducked for cover as Diagne fired.
Ryder Harrington, 19, and Jorge Pederson, 30, were also killed. Several of the injured were students, with police reporting that at least three remained in critical condition.
The attack occurred amid heightened tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran following military strikes in the region over the weekend. Federal authorities are investigating whether the shooting was ideologically motivated.
Austin’s Indian-American community has expressed deep sorrow over Shan’s death. Leaders said they are working with local authorities to support the Shan family and others affected, and a memorial service is planned as the investigation continues.
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