Third person dies after Austin bar shooting
Third Person Dies in Austin Bar Shooting
Austin authorities confirmed Monday night that a third individual succumbed to injuries sustained in an early Sunday morning bar shooting on Sixth Street. The victim, Jorge Pederson, 30, was among those killed, joining Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan in the tragedy. Over a dozen others were wounded as the incident unfolded near a well-known beer garden in the city’s downtown area.
Suspect’s Background Revealed
The shooter, 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, was killed by police shortly after the attack. Diagne, a Senegalese national and U.S. citizen, resided in Pflugerville. Law enforcement sources noted he had a history of mental health issues, though no prior threats were linked to the agencies involved. Davis, a special agent with the San Antonio FBI office, stated the firearms used were legally purchased in San Antonio in 2017. The motive remains under investigation, with officials considering the possibility of terrorism.
Family Tributes to Ryder Harrington
“Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew,” wrote Reed Harrington on Facebook, reflecting on his sibling’s life. “It is unfair, to say the least, that my little brother was only given 19 years on this earth.” Reed expressed the family’s gratitude for condolences, adding, “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.”
Ryder Harrington, a Texas Tech University student, was remembered by his sister Reagan Harrington as her “best friend.” In an Instagram post, she lamented, “I can’t believe you aren’t with me right now,” and described his impact as “special” and “unforgettable.” Ryan Harrington, another sibling, shared, “I’m gonna miss my brother,” highlighting the emotional toll of the loss. The fraternity Beta Theta Pi, which Harrington joined as part of the fall 2024 pledge class, honored him with a candlelight vigil on Monday and a GoFundMe campaign for his family.
Shooting Details and Injuries
The attack occurred outside Buford’s, a popular downtown Austin beer garden. Three individuals were transported to the hospital in critical condition. On Monday, Austin’s police chief Lisa Davis revealed that one of these patients was removed from life support later that day. Pederson’s death was announced Monday night, while the other two remain in critical condition. Davis also noted that Diagne wore a sweatshirt inscribed with “Property of Allah” and an Iranian-flag themed shirt during the incident.
Political Response and Unanswered Questions
State House Speaker Dustin Burrows highlighted Ryder’s character on X, calling him “the kind of young man who made a difference without even trying.” He described him as vibrant, loyal, and a proud Red Raider, adding that the family’s grief is “countless.” A Homeland Security official mentioned Diagne’s initial connection to the event, though the full context was cut off in the report.
