Home / Crime and Justice / MMA Fighter Killed in Austin Bar Shooting
MMA Fighter Killed in Austin Bar Shooting
3 Mar
Summary
- Three people died in a bar shooting, including a fighter set for pro debut.
- The gunman, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, had potential terror links.
- Thirteen others sustained injuries during the early Sunday morning incident.
Tragedy struck Austin's nightlife scene early Sunday morning when a shooting at Buford's Backyard Beer Garden claimed three lives and left thirteen others injured. The victims were identified as Jorge Pederson, 30, Savitha Shan, 24, and Ryder Harrington, 22.
Pederson, a middleweight MMA fighter based in Minnesota, was in Austin for his highly anticipated professional debut scheduled for May 18. His promoter described him as a charismatic fighter with a bright future, noting his unique personality and talent.
Authorities identified the suspect as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne. The FBI is exploring potential terroristic links, citing concerning indicators found on the suspect and in his vehicle, including a "Property of Allah" sweatshirt and an Iranian flag undershirt. The investigation into the motive is ongoing.
