Two Dead, 14 Injured in Downtown Austin Shooting as Police Kill Suspect in Sixth Street Rampage

Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting in downtown Austin that left two people dead and 14 others injured early Sunday in the city’s busy Sixth Street entertainment district.

Police say the suspect drove a large SUV around the area multiple times before opening fire. At one point, he activated his vehicle’s hazard lights, rolled down the windows and began shooting a pistol at patrons outside a bar, including people sitting on the patio and gathered along the sidewalk.

Investigators say the gunman then drove westbound on Sixth Street to Wood Street, parked his vehicle, got out and again opened fire on people walking nearby. He then began moving east along Sixth Street toward one of the busiest parts of the entertainment district.

Authorities say the area was heavily staffed with police, fire and EMS personnel due to weekend crowds. Officers were positioned nearby and responded within about a minute after the first reports of gunfire.

Police say officers confronted the suspect as he moved toward East Sixth Street. At an intersection, officers opened fire and killed him.

Officials say 14 additional victims were injured in the shooting. Several were transported to hospitals, with three reported in critical condition.

The violence unfolded near a popular bar in one of Austin’s most crowded nightlife areas. Streets were closed as emergency crews secured the scene and investigators gathered evidence.

Authorities say there is evidence the attack may be connected to a terrorist organization or motivated by ideology. Federal investigators are assisting local law enforcement as the investigation continues.

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