A night out on one of Texas’ busiest entertainment corridors turned into chaos in the early hours of Sunday, March 1, after a gunman opened fire outside a popular bar in downtown Austin, leaving three people dead — including the suspected shooter — and at least 14 others injured.

Authorities say the violence unfolded just before 2 a.m. along West Sixth Street, a well-known nightlife strip. According to Austin Police Department, officers were already stationed nearby when the suspect began shooting from inside a sport utility vehicle outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden.

How the Shooting Unfolded

At a press briefing, Police Chief Lisa Davis detailed the sequence of events. Investigators believe the suspect drove around the area multiple times before stopping and firing a handgun from his vehicle toward people gathered outside the bar.

Witnesses described confusion and panic as gunshots rang out across the crowded street. After the initial rounds, the gunman reportedly parked nearby, exited the SUV, and continued firing — this time using both a pistol and a rifle.

Three officers on patrol quickly returned fire, fatally shooting the suspect at the scene. The suspect’s identity has not been officially released by police, though local reports have identified him as a 53-year-old man. Authorities have not confirmed that information publicly.

Victims and Emergency Response

Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services responded within seconds of receiving the emergency call at 1:59 a.m., officials said. EMS Chief Robert Luckritz noted that medics were already strategically positioned in the entertainment district, allowing them to arrive in under a minute.

Fourteen people were transported to nearby hospitals. As of the latest update, three victims were reported in critical condition. Two civilians died at the scene, while the third fatality was the suspected gunman.

Authorities credited the rapid coordination between police and emergency responders with preventing an even higher casualty count.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised first responders, stating that their swift action likely saved lives during the unfolding crisis.

FBI Investigates Possible Terrorism Connection

The case has drawn federal attention. The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed that members of its Joint Terrorism Task Force are assisting in the investigation.

During a media briefing, Alex Doran, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s San Antonio office, said investigators found “indicators” suggesting a potential nexus to terrorism, either related to the suspect or items discovered inside his vehicle.

However, Doran emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages and declined to provide further details about what those indicators were.

Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are also assisting with forensic and ballistic analysis.

Area Shut Down as Investigation Continues

In the aftermath of the shooting, West Sixth Street from Guadalupe Street to North Lamar Boulevard was closed to traffic as crime scene investigators worked through the area.

Officials urged residents and visitors to avoid the district while authorities process evidence and conduct interviews.

The shooting occurred the same day another mass shooting left at least nine people injured during an event at a concert venue in Cincinnati, underscoring a troubling trend of gun violence nationwide. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have already been dozens of mass shootings in 2026.

Community Reaction

Community leaders and law enforcement representatives expressed grief and frustration following the tragedy. The president of the Austin Police Association described the incident as devastating but emphasized the department’s readiness and rapid response.

Police are asking anyone searching for loved ones or seeking victim support to contact the department’s Victim Services Unit.

As investigators continue examining the suspect’s background and possible motives, the city remains on edge — hoping for answers and calling for solutions to curb recurring violence.

FAQ

1. How many people died in the Austin bar shooting?

Three people died — two civilians and the suspected gunman.

2. How many people were injured?

At least 14 people were hospitalized, with three reported in critical condition.

3. Where did the shooting happen?

The shooting occurred on West Sixth Street in downtown Austin, outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden.

4. Is the shooting being investigated as terrorism?

The FBI said there are “indicators” suggesting a potential link to terrorism, but the investigation is ongoing.

5. Was the suspect identified?

Police have not officially released the suspect’s name, though local sources have reported his identity.