Authorities in Austin, Texas, are investigating a deadly bar shooting that left two people dead and 14 others injured, with early evidence prompting officials to examine a possible connection to extremism.
Police identified the suspect as Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal. Officers fatally shot the gunman at the scene after he opened fire using both a handgun and a rifle, according to investigators.
During a briefing, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said there were indicators suggesting a “potential nexus to terrorism,” but officials cautioned that it remains too early to establish a clear motive.
Sources familiar with the investigation said the attacker was wearing clothing bearing religious wording at the time of the incident. A search of his residence reportedly uncovered an Iranian flag and images of Iranian leaders, while a religious text was found inside his vehicle, according to reports by CBS News.
Investigators believe the suspect acted alone. Law enforcement sources also revealed that Diagne had previously experienced mental health-related episodes, which authorities are now examining alongside the possibility of ideological influence or self-radicalization.
The shooting occurred amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Iran, including a recent military escalation that reportedly resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Immigration records indicate Diagne entered the United States in 2000 on a tourist visa, obtained permanent residency in 2006, and became a naturalized citizen in 2013. He had previously lived in New York before relocating to Texas.
U.S. President Donald Trump has been briefed on the incident, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing, stressing that conclusions about motive or affiliations will depend on further evidence.
