A mass shooting early Sunday morning rocked the bustling entertainment district of downtown Austin, Texas, with authorities responding to reports of an “active attack” near West Sixth Street.
Shortly before 2 a.m. local time, Austin Police Department (APD) officers and emergency responders rushed to a chaotic scene outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a popular nightlife venue in the heart of the city’s Sixth Street entertainment corridor, after receiving multiple reports of gunfire and an active shooter situation.
Upon arrival, officers encountered an armed suspect who opened fire to the crowd. According to police officials, three APD officers engaged the shooter and returned fire, fatally wounding him.
Officials confirmed that three people including the suspected gunman were killed in the incident. At least 14 others were wounded and transported to nearby hospitals with injuries, three of whom were reported to be in critical condition.
Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services (ATCEMS) said paramedics and police officers were on the scene within approximately 57 seconds of the emergency call, highlighting the rapid response from first responders.
The shooting unfolded in one of Austin’s busiest nightlife districts, a stretch of West Sixth Street known for its bars, restaurants and live entertainment. Videos on social media from before the attack showed revelers enjoying the night just minutes before gunfire erupted.
Authorities initially described the situation as an active attack, prompting a large law enforcement presence and public safety warnings. As of mid-morning, police indicated there was no ongoing threat to the public following the suspect’s death.
At a news conference, APD Chief Lisa Davis described the incident and emphasized the speed with which law enforcement and emergency workers responded to the crisis. Mayor Kirk Watson praised officers and first responders, saying their rapid actions “definitely saved lives.”
Law enforcement has not yet released any identifying information about the victims or the shooter, and the motive remains unclear. The FBI and other federal partners are reportedly assisting with the investigation, which is expected to continue for several days.
Authorities have urged anyone searching for loved ones or with information about the incident to contact the Austin Police Department’s Victim Services Unit.
