A shooting in Austin that killed two people and injured 14 others may be tied to terrorism, according to officials.
The alleged shooter was also killed, making the death toll at least three. Officials said items that were found on the alleged shooter and in the vehicle indicate a potential tie to terrorism.
Police responded to reports of a male shooting at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden — near the University of Texas-Austin — just before 2 a.m.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the suspect, who was driving a large SUV, circled the block several times before stopping, turning on the SUV’s hazard lights, and firing a handgun. Police said he then parked near Wood Street, got out, and continued shooting with a pistol and later a rifle as he walked east on Sixth Street.
Three officers who were patrolling the entertainment district responded to the scene in 57 seconds, confronted the gunman and “returned fire,” killing the unidentified suspect.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force has joined the investigation.
This is a developing story.