A 21-year-old Indian-origin honors student at the University of Texas was killed in a mass shooting outside a popular Austin beer garden, as federal authorities investigate possible terror links amid heightened tensions tied to the ongoing Iran conflict.
A 21-year-old Indian-origin student was killed in a mass shooting in Austin, Texas, and was among the victims of the attack that authorities are investigating for possible links to terrorism amid rising tensions tied to the Iran conflict.
Savita Shan was doing an honours degree at the University of Texas and died after the shooting unfolded on Sunday outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden. The Austin Police Department confirmed the death of Shan who died alongside the gunman, who was killed by police.
University’s Professor confirmed death
University of Texas President Jim Davis confirmed Shan’s death in a message to the campus community, describing her as a student preparing to make a difference in the world. He said she was a devoted daughter and a loyal friend, and that the university community was deeply grieving the loss.
A superstar student
An Assistant Professor at University of Texas, Russ Finney took to X to share his heartfelt tribute towards his student Savita, who was one of the brightest students at the University. “It is absolutely crushing to lose her,” he wrote.
“Savitha was one of our superstar students at the UT Austin McCombs school of business – she was set to graduate this May, and then she was on to start her career at a big professional services firm. She was a double major with honors,” he wrote.
Savitha was one of our superstar students at the UT Austin McCombs school of business – she was set to graduate this May, and then she was on to start her career at a big professional services firm. She was a double major with honors. Involved in student organizations – a light… pic.twitter.com/rSPGLTLQaG
— Russ Finney (@rfinney) March 3, 2026
The professor added that several other students remain in serious condition in hospital, describing it as an extremely difficult time for the entire community.
Gunman identified
According to the officials at the law enforcement, the suspected gunman was 53-year old named Ndiaga Diagne, an immigrant from Senegal. He was identified wearing white T-shirt with the Iranian flag and words written “Property of Allah.”
FBI Acting Special Agent Alex Doran said there were signs for him being connected to a terror group, further investigations are still ongoing.
FBI Director Kash Patel said he had directed counterterrorism and intelligence teams to remain vigilant in light of the heightened threat environment.
“Last night I instructed our Counterterrorism and intelligence teams to be on high alert and mobilize all assisting security assets needed. Our JTTFs throughout the country are working 24/7, as always, to address and disrupt any potential threats to the homeland,” Patel wrote on X.
Other survivors and victims
Texas Police also confirmed the deaths of Ryder Harrington, 19, who died at the scene, and Jorge Pederson, 30, who later died after being taken off life support.
One survivor, Karan Bhakta, a 21-year-old senior at the university, said a bullet grazed his scalp as he was enjoying a night out with friends.
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