Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting
Two Austin Bar Shooting Victims Identified by Authorities
Suspect Details and Background
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis confirmed at a Monday news conference that Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan were the two individuals fatally shot during a Sunday morning attack near a downtown Austin beer garden. The incident, which left 14 others injured, occurred just outside Buford’s, a well-known establishment in the city center. Davis noted that the suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old Senegalese national and U.S. citizen, had a documented history of mental health challenges. Law enforcement sources revealed Diagne, who lived in Pflugerville, Texas, was not previously flagged as a threat by either the police department or the San Antonio FBI field office.
Victim Information and Family Reactions
Among the deceased, Ryder Harrington, 19, was identified as a student at Texas Tech University, as shared by his siblings and a local politician. His brother, Reed Harrington, reflected on his passing in a Facebook post, stating, “Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew.” He expressed deep grief, emphasizing, “It is unfair, to say the least, that my little brother was only given 19 years on this earth.” Reed also added, “I don’t think life will ever feel normal again. I have no idea what I’m supposed to do, but I know you will always be there to guide me and be my mentor.”
“Watching the man he had become, and seeing all the lives he touched, leaves me certain that this world was robbed of a great future.”
Reagan Harrington, another sibling, called Ryder her “best friend” in an Instagram tribute, writing, “I can’t believe you aren’t with me right now.” She expressed uncertainty about moving forward, noting, “Nothing would be enough to express how special you are to me. I’m not sure how we’re meant to work through this — all I can think about is seeing you again.” Ryan Harrington, the fourth sibling, shared similar sentiments, stating, “I’m gonna miss my brother.”
Fraternity and Community Response
The fraternity Beta Theta Pi, which Ryder joined as part of the fall 2024 pledge class, confirmed his death. Their Instagram post described him as “a light that was impossible to ignore,” highlighting his ability to “make moments feel bigger” and “turn ordinary days into unforgettable experiences.” The chapter plans a candlelight vigil on Monday at 8 p.m. to honor Ryder, alongside launching a GoFundMe campaign for his family.
Additional Context and Injuries
Robert Luckritz, head of the county’s emergency medical services, reported that three of the 14 injured were in critical condition. Davis announced on Monday that one of those patients will be removed from life support later that day, while the other two remain in critical care. Diagne, who wore a sweatshirt with “Property of Allah” and an Iranian-flag themed shirt, was believed to have acted alone, according to early investigation findings.
Immigration and Legal Background
A Homeland Security official informed NBC News that Diagne first entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa on March 13, 2000. He later became a lawful permanent resident in 2006 through marriage to a U.S. citizen. Davis stated the firearms used in the attack were legally purchased in San Antonio in 2017. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation, with officials considering the possibility of terrorism.