Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting

Officials Identify Two Victims in Austin Bar Shooting

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis confirmed at a Monday news conference that Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan were the two individuals killed during a Sunday morning shooting near a downtown beer garden. The incident, which occurred outside of Buford’s, left 14 others with injuries, some requiring immediate hospitalization.

The suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, a 53-year-old Senegalese national, was shot and killed by officers shortly after the attack. Diagne, who lived in Pflugerville, Texas, had no known ties to the state, according to early investigation reports. His clothing at the scene included a sweatshirt with “Property of Allah” and a shirt featuring an Iranian flag motif.

Davis noted the firearms used in the shooting were legally purchased in San Antonio in 2017. While authorities are still determining the motive, possibilities such as terrorism remain under consideration. The suspect’s mental health history was highlighted by sources, though he was not previously flagged as a threat by either the police department or the FBI.

“Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew,” wrote Reed Harrington, Ryder’s brother, in a Facebook tribute. He shared the family’s gratitude for the support they’ve received, expressing how deeply the loss has affected them.

Ryder Harrington, a 19-year-old Texas Tech student, was remembered by his siblings as a cherished figure. His sister Reagan Harrington described him as her “best friend” on Instagram, lamenting the suddenness of his passing. “Nothing would be enough to express how special you are to me,” she added, reflecting on the enduring impact of his presence.

Ryan Harrington, another sibling, also mourned his brother’s death, posting, “I’m gonna miss my brother.” The Beta Theta Pi fraternity confirmed Ryder’s death, noting he was part of the Fall 2024 pledge class. They praised his ability to bring joy and make everyday moments memorable, and are planning a candlelight vigil on Monday at 8 p.m. to honor him.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist the Harrington family. Dustin Burrows, the Texas House speaker, highlighted Ryder’s connection to his team, calling him a brother-in-law. “Ryder was exactly the kind of young man who made a difference without even trying,” Burrows stated, emphasizing his positive influence.

Emergency medical services chief Robert Luckritz reported that three of the 14 injured were in critical condition following the attack. On Monday, Davis revealed one of these patients has been removed from life support, while the other two remain in serious status. Diagne’s entry into the U.S. on a B-2 visa in 2000 and his naturalization in 2006, based on marriage, were also disclosed by law enforcement officials.