Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting
Officials Identify Two Victims in Austin Bar Shooting
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis revealed at a Monday news conference that Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan were the two individuals who perished in a bar shooting that occurred early Sunday. The incident, which also left 14 others injured, transpired just outside a well-known beer garden in the city’s downtown area. The suspect, who was killed by law enforcement, had a documented history of mental health issues, as reported by sources close to the investigation.
Suspect Background and Gun Acquisition
Davis and Alex Doran, a special agent from the San Antonio FBI field office, confirmed that the suspect was not previously flagged as a threat to either department. The firearms used in the attack were legally purchased in San Antonio in 2017, according to Davis. Investigators are currently exploring potential motives, including the possibility of the event being a terrorist act.
“Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew,” his sibling, Reed Harrington, shared on Facebook, reflecting on the loss. The post highlighted the young man’s positive impact, adding, “It is unfair, to say the least, that my little brother was only given 19 years on this earth.” Reed expressed uncertainty about the future but emphasized the enduring support from those who knew Ryder. “I don’t think life will ever feel normal again. I have no idea what I’m supposed to do, but I know you will always be there to guide me and be my mentor,” he wrote.
Family Tributes and Fraternity Response
Reagan Harrington, another sibling, described Ryder as her “best friend” in an Instagram tribute, lamenting, “I can’t believe you aren’t with me right now.” She further noted, “Nothing would be enough to express how special you are to me. I’m not sure how we’re meant to work through this — all I can think about is seeing you again.” Ryan Harrington also shared his grief on Instagram, stating, “I’m gonna miss my brother.”
The Beta Theta Pi fraternity confirmed Ryder’s death, highlighting his role in the fall 2024 pledge class. Their Instagram post praised him as someone who “brought a light that was impossible to ignore,” noting his ability to “make ordinary days unforgettable.” The chapter plans a candlelight vigil on Monday at 8 p.m. and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist his family.
Suspect Profile and Immigration Status
The shooter, 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, was identified by authorities. Diagne, a Senegalese national and naturalized U.S. citizen, resided in Pflugerville, Texas, at the time of the shooting. Law enforcement officials described him as having no known connections to the state, suggesting he may have acted independently. A Homeland Security representative added that Diagne first entered the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa on March 13, 2000, and later became a lawful permanent resident through marriage to a U.S. citizen in 2006.
State House Speaker Dustin Burrows shared his condolences on X, noting that Ryder was the brother-in-law of one of his team members. He described the teen as “exactly the kind of young man who made a difference without even trying — full of life, loyal to his friends, proud to be a Red Raider and a Texan, and someone who showed up for the people around him.” Burrows expressed hope for the Harrington family, stating, “everyone who loved Ryder — the number appears to be countless.”
Victim Details and Injuries
Authorities confirmed Ryder Harrington, a 19-year-old Texas Tech University student, was among the fatalities. His sibling, Reagan Harrington, expressed her disbelief at his passing, while Davis noted that Savitha Shan was likely around 24 years old but did not disclose her educational background. Of the 14 injured, three were in critical condition, as stated by Robert Luckritz, chief of the county’s emergency medical services. On Monday, Davis announced that one of the critically injured would be removed from life support later that day, though the other two remained in severe condition.
