Texas Tech Student Ryder Harrington Among Three Killed in Austin Sixth Street Shooting Probed as Terrorism
AUSTIN, Texas – A 19-year-old Texas Tech University student was identified as one of three victims fatally shot in a brazen early morning attack on Austin’s vibrant Sixth Street nightlife district, as federal authorities investigate potential terrorism links.
Ryder Harrington, a member of the Fall 2024 Pledge Class of Texas Tech’s Beta Theta Pi fraternity, was killed when 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne opened fire outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden just after 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026.[1][2] The shooting left 14 others injured, with some victims still in critical condition as of Monday.[3]
Details of the Deadly Attack
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis described the sequence of events during a press briefing. Diagne, a naturalized U.S. citizen originally from Senegal and residing in Pflugerville, Texas, approached the bar in his vehicle. He activated his flashers, rolled down the window, and began firing a pistol at patrons on the patio and in front of the bar.[1][2] He then drove a short distance west on Sixth Street to Wood Street, parked, exited the vehicle holding a rifle, and continued shooting at pedestrians without entering the establishment.[1]
Officers responded swiftly, confronting and fatally shooting Diagne at the scene. An explosives team later examined his vehicle after discovering “concerning items” inside, but no bombs were found.[1] Images captured Diagne wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with “Property of Allah” and a T-shirt featuring an Iranian flag underneath.[1]
Victims’ Identities and Tributes
Harrington’s fraternity posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, Ryder Harrington, a member of the Fall 2024 Pledge Class.” A GoFundMe page echoed the sentiment, describing him as “a beloved son, brother, and friend whose kindness and presence touched countless lives.”[1][2]
He was one of two confirmed young victims, alongside 21-year-old Savitha Shan, a dual-degree student at the University of Texas at Austin. Shan, an Austin native who attended Baranoff Elementary and LASA High School, was remembered by UT President Jim Davis in a campus-wide email as “a child of loving parents… a loyal friend to many… a Longhorn preparing to change the world.”[3] The third deceased victim was the shooter, Diagne.[4]
Among the injured, a critically wounded man identified as Jorge Pederson by coworker Kelson Li is expected to be taken off life support, while two others remain critical. At least four injured individuals had been released from hospitals by Monday afternoon.[3]
Political and Community Response
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows shared a personal connection on social media, noting Harrington was the brother-in-law of one of his staffers. “Ryder’s passing has hit especially close to home for our Team Burrows family… our hearts are aching alongside his loved ones.”[1]
The incident has reverberated through Austin’s university communities, particularly near the University of Texas, where the bar is located. UT President Davis confirmed other Longhorn students were among the injured, some facing serious conditions.[3]
FBI Terrorism Probe Intensifies
The FBI has labeled the shooting a possible terrorist act. Alex Dorn, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office, stated at a Sunday press conference: “There were indicators on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism.” While a precise motive remains undetermined, the investigation continues amid heightened scrutiny.[2]
The attack unfolded near the intersection of West Sixth Street and Rio Grande Street, transforming a popular nightlife hub into a scene of chaos. Initial reports pegged the gunfire call at around 1:40 a.m.[3]
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
As Austin police and federal agents piece together Diagne’s background and intentions, the city grapples with the loss. Chief Davis emphasized the rapid response that likely prevented further casualties. The tragedy underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in entertainment districts, now compounded by potential ideological motivations.
Families, friends, and fraternities mourn Harrington’s bright future cut short. Beta Theta Pi’s tribute highlighted his immediate impact: “From the moment he joined our brotherhood, he brought a light that was impossible to ignore.”[2]
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward as the probe deepens. Austin’s Sixth Street, known for its bars and post-event crowds, will undoubtedly see enhanced security measures in the wake of this devastation.
This story is developing. Additional details on the victims, shooter, and investigation will be updated as they become available.