AUSTIN, Texas — Buford’s, the site of a shooting that left three people dead and injured dozens more last week in Austin, announced plans to reopen with increased safety measures.
According to a statement posted to Instagram on Thursday, the bar will open Friday, March 6, at 6 p.m. with an increased police presence at 6th and Rio Grande streets. A portion of Rio Grande will be closed to through traffic from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Additional safety measures like protective glass will also be installed along the beer garden.
Terror struck the crowded West 6th Street bar on Sunday, March 1, at 1:58 a.m. when a gunman opened fire outside, killing 19-year-old Ryder Harrington, 21-year-old Savitha Shan and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson. Police quickly located and fatally shot the suspected shooter, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne. The FBI is investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.
In the post, Buford’s said it decided to reopen after “many conversations” with staff, adding that the bar is the primary source of income for many and “a place where they feel supported and not alone.”
“It [Buford’s] has also long been a home for many in our community, and returning to a sense of routine and togetherness, while difficult, can be an important part of healing,” the statement said.
The bar is donating all sales from the weekend of March 6-8 to victims and families who were most impacted by the shooting.
“After listening closely to our staff and reflecting on what would best support both them and our community, we believe reopening is the right step forward…We move forward with heavy hearts, deep gratitude for our team and community, and a commitment to stand together,” the statement said.
Read the full statement here: