Three people lost their lives, and 14 were injured in a tragic shooting on West Sixth Street in Austin early Sunday morning. The FBI is investigating it as a possible act of terrorism, as noted by Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Doran.
The shooter, who was among the deceased, was reported to have been killed by the police. This incident unfolded just before 2 a.m. outside Buford’s bar at the intersection of West Sixth and Rio Grande streets.
While the exact motive remains unclear, Doran mentioned that there were signs indicating a potential link to terrorism both in the suspect’s behavior and vehicle. Due to the ongoing investigation, officials have not released the names of the victims or the shooter.
Police Chief Lisa Davis detailed the suspect’s actions at a news conference. The shooter drove around the area before stopping and opening fire on patrons. Afterward, he parked his vehicle nearby, got out with a rifle, and continued shooting at pedestrians. Responding officers quickly neutralized the threat.
Austin-Travis County EMS responded swiftly, reaching the scene less than a minute after the call. In total, 17 people were treated; three were pronounced dead on site. Of the 14 hospitalized, three are in critical condition. Chief Robert Luckritz praised the rapid response of the emergency services team for potentially saving lives.
Mayor Kirk Watson described the shooting as an “extremely significant moment” for Austin, emphasizing the need for community strength in times of crisis. In solidarity, UT Austin President Jim Davis expressed his sorrow and extended thoughts to the victims and their families.
Witnesses recounted the chaos. Kelson Li heard gunshots while heading back to Buford’s and saw terrified crowds fleeing the scene. He described finding multiple injured people, with efforts underway to administer CPR. Li remains anxious about a coworker he couldn’t find after the gunfire.
This shooting reflects a troubling trend; according to the Gun Violence Archive, over 600 mass shootings occurred in the U.S. in 2022 alone. The emotional toll on communities can be profound, often sparking discussions around gun control and public safety.
As this story develops, support for affected individuals and families is crucial. For those looking for loved ones, the Austin Police Department’s victim services unit can be contacted at 512-974-5037.
In moments of violence like this, community resilience shines through. It’s important to come together, support one another, and continually advocate for a safer environment for all.
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