Officials identify the two victims killed in Austin bar shooting
Authorities identify the two individuals who lost their lives in the recent Austin bar shooting
On Sunday morning, a shooting at a downtown Austin beer garden left two people dead and 14 others wounded, according to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis. During a Monday news briefing, Davis confirmed that Ryder Harrington and Savitha Shan were the victims. The suspect, who was killed by police, had a documented history of mental health issues, as reported by sources connected to the investigation.
The incident occurred outside Buford’s, a well-known establishment in the heart of the city. Among the injured, three were transported to the hospital in critical condition. Davis announced that one of these patients would be removed from life support later that day, while the other two remained in serious condition.
Officials revealed that the suspect, Ndiaga Diagne, was a 53-year-old Senegalese national and naturalized U.S. citizen residing in Pflugerville. Law enforcement noted that Diagne arrived in the country on March 13, 2000, under a B-2 tourist visa and later became a lawful permanent resident through marriage to a U.S. citizen. The investigation is currently in its early stages, with no confirmed ties to the state or any organized group.
Family tributes to the deceased
“Ryder was the best mix of all the Harrington crew,” his sibling Reed Harrington shared on Facebook, expressing grief over the loss. “It is unfair, to say the least, that my little brother was only given 19 years on this earth,” he added, reflecting on the impact of his brother’s untimely death. “Watching the man he had become, and seeing all the lives he touched, leaves me certain that this world was robbed of a great future.”
“I don’t think life will ever feel normal again,” Reed continued. “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’s sister Reagan Harrington honored him on Instagram, calling him her “best friend” and expressing disbelief at his passing. “Nothing would be enough to express how special you are to me,” she wrote, emphasizing the emotional toll of his death. “I’m not sure how we’re meant to work through this — all I can think about is seeing you again.”
Another sibling, Ryan Harrington, also shared his thoughts on social media, stating, “I’m gonna miss my brother.” The fraternity Beta Theta Pi confirmed Ryder’s death, noting that he was part of the fall 2024 pledge class. “From the moment he joined our brotherhood, he brought a light that was impossible to ignore,” the chapter’s post said. “Ryder had a rare ability to truly enjoy life to make people laugh, to make moments feel bigger, and to make ordinary days unforgettable.”
Beta Theta Pi plans to hold a candlelight vigil at 8 p.m. on Monday to commemorate Ryder. The chapter also launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist his family. State House Speaker Dustin Burrows highlighted Ryder’s legacy on X, calling him the brother-in-law of one of his team members. “From all accounts, Ryder was 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 stated. He expressed hope for the family and those who loved Ryder, noting their number appears to be vast.
