Authorities in Austin are probing whether the deadly bar shooting that claimed three lives and injured 14 on Sunday could be linked to terrorism. The FBI has stated that the incident “has the potential to be an act of terrorism” as investigators sift through evidence and motive.
The gunman, a 53‑year‑old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal who resided in Pflugerville, Texas, allegedly drove a large SUV around a block of West Sixth Street before firing. Reports indicate he wore clothing bearing the word “Allah” and an undershirt with an Iranian flag, details that have prompted law‑enforcement officials to consider a possible terrorist motive.
According to police, the shooter first opened fire from his vehicle, targeting patrons on the patio of Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. He then drove west along Sixth Street, parked, exited with a rifle, and continued firing at pedestrians. Law‑enforcement units responded within seconds, shooting the suspect dead at an intersection.
The San Antonio Field Office’s acting special agent, Alex Dorn, emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that conclusions about terrorism cannot yet be drawn. He noted that the Joint Terrorism Task Force is actively involved.
This attack follows a series of violent incidents on Austin’s entertainment strip, prompting city officials and business owners to enhance crowd‑control measures. Police Chief Lisa Davis described the chaos that erupted each weekend near the bar, underscoring the need for improved safety protocols.
Victims’ families can seek assistance through the city’s Victim Services Unit hotline. The case remains under close scrutiny as authorities work to uncover the shooter’s exact motives.
Source: www.foxnews.com
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