Austin Shooting: Gunman Expressed Pro-Iranian Sentiment

The gunman who killed two people and wounded 14 others in downtown Austin, Texas, on Sunday, March 1, 2026, had expressed “pro-Iranian regime sentiment” on social media, according to the SITE Intelligence Group . The attack occurred amid heightened security concerns following recent U.S. And Israeli strikes against Iran.

Suspect Identified as Ndiaga Diagne

The assailant has been identified as Ndiaga Diagne, a U.S. Citizen of Senegalese origin, by SITE Intelligence Group . He was shot and killed by police at the scene. Representative Chip Roy, a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, shared a photo on X (formerly Twitter) of the suspect holding a rifle and wearing a sweatshirt that read “Property of Allah” .

Online Activity and Potential Motives

SITE reported that Diagne had posted on Facebook between 2017 and 2019 expressing “pro-Iranian regime views and hatred toward Israeli and American leaders” . He also shared a picture of himself holding what appeared to be an assault rifle. The FBI stated there were “indicators…that indicate a potential nexus to terrorism,” but a definitive motive remained unknown as of Sunday .

Details of the Shooting

The shooting took place near a bar in downtown Austin early Sunday morning. Police responded to reports of shots fired around 1:58 a.m. . The suspect initially fired at customers through his vehicle’s window before exiting and shooting at passersby. Three police officers returned fire, killing the suspect .

Official Responses and Increased Security

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is assisting local authorities with the investigation . White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that Donald Trump was being kept informed of the situation. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced increased security measures at energy facilities, ports, and along the U.S.-Mexico border, stating that Texas would respond with “decisive and overwhelming force” to protect the state . The governor also deployed military reservists to protect citizens and critical infrastructure .

Casualties and Ongoing Investigation

Three people remained in critical condition as of Sunday morning . The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full extent of the suspect’s motives and any potential connections to terrorist organizations.