NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Austin, TX, March 3, 2026: Savitha Shan, a 21-year-old Austin native and dual-degree senior at University of Texas at Austin, was among three people killed when a gunman opened fire in the city’s West Sixth Street entertainment district early March 1, authorities said.
The shooting occurred shortly before 2 a.m. outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a popular nightlife venue near the university campus. Police said the suspect fired multiple rounds into a crowded area before officers confronted and fatally shot him.
Shan, who was pursuing degrees through the McCombs School of Business and the College of Liberal Arts, was set to graduate in May. University officials described her as a dedicated student and active member of campus organizations. She served on the executive board of the university’s Indian Students Association and had secured a position with a major professional services firm following commencement.
In a statement, UT Austin President Jim Davis extended condolences to her family and said the university community was grieving the loss of a “Longhorn preparing to change the world.”
Two other victims were also killed in the attack: 19-year-old Ryder Harrington, a former student at Texas Tech University, and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson, who later died after being taken off life support. Fourteen others were injured, several critically, and were transported to area hospitals.
Authorities identified the gunman as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne. Police said he fired from his vehicle and then on foot before being shot by responding officers. Law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, are assisting in the investigation. Officials have said they are examining evidence recovered at the scene but have not confirmed a motive.
The West Sixth Street district, known for its concentration of bars and music venues, was crowded at the time of the shooting. Austin police said the investigation remains ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses.
University counselors and support services have been made available to students and staff as the campus community mourns Shan’s death. Community members have begun organizing vigils to honor the victims.
