A shooting at a bar in Texas has claimed the lives of at least three people, including the alleged gunman.
The FBI is investigating whether the shooting was an act of terrorism.
Authorities say 14 others were injured after the incident in Central Austin. The FBI is investigating whether the shooting was an act of terrorism due to “indicators” found on the gunman and his vehicle.
But FBI agent Alex Doran said, “It’s still too early to make any decisions.”
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis told reporters early Sunday that her force received a report of a “male shooting” just before 2 a.m. at Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on West Sixth Street, a popular nightlife destination in the city’s entertainment district filled with bars and music clubs.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis. Photo: AP
Ms. Davis said the suspect, who was driving an SUV, drove past the bar several times before putting on the vehicle’s indicators, opening his window, and “shooting up.” [through the open window] With a pistol, striking patrons in the bar’s courtyard and in front of the bar.”
The suspect then parked the car and “got out of his car with a rifle and started shooting at people passing by”.
When police arrived at the scene, they found a man with a gun and three officers “returned fire, killing the suspect” at an intersection.
Ms. Davis said they were lucky because there were a number of officers nearby at the time, and as the bars were closing, they were “able to get here quickly.”
Robert Luckritz, the chief of Emergency Medical Services, reported that they found three people dead at the scene and transported the injured to hospitals. The condition of three of the injured is critical.
Photo: AP
Mr. Luckritz said he received “a call” at 1.39 a.m., and within 57 seconds, the first paramedics and officers were on the scene actively treating patients.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson praised the quick responses of police and rescue workers, saying that they “definitely saved lives.”
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Police have not released the identity of the gunman.
