Three Dead, 14 Injured After Gunman Opens Fire in Downtown Austin Entertainment District
AUSTIN, Texas — Three people, including the suspected gunman, are dead and 14 others were injured following an early Sunday morning shooting in Austin’s busy downtown entertainment district.
According to the Austin Police Department, officers responded at approximately 1:58 a.m. on March 1, 2026, to reports of an active attack at Burford’s Bar in the 700 block of West 6th Street near Rio Grande Street.
Police say a large SUV repeatedly drove around the block before stopping near the bar with its emergency flashers activated. A gunman then began firing a pistol from inside the vehicle toward patrons gathered outside on the patio and along the sidewalk.
Investigators say the suspect then drove westbound on Sixth Street, parked near Wood Street, exited the vehicle armed with a rifle, and began shooting at pedestrians walking in the area.
Because the Sixth Street corridor typically has a heavy weekend law enforcement presence, officers, EMS, and fire personnel were already staged nearby. Responding officers ran toward the gunfire and confronted the suspect at an intersection, where officers shot and killed the gunman.
Officials confirmed three people died, including the suspect, while 14 additional victims were transported to local hospitals. The Austin Police Association said three victims remain in critical condition.
Officers and paramedics arrived on scene within 57 seconds of the initial call. No officers were injured during the incident.
“Their immediate action, courage, and coordination undoubtedly saved lives, and we are extremely proud of their work,” the Austin Police Association said in a statement. “We mourn with the victims and their families while recognizing the phenomenal work of the first responders who ran toward danger without hesitation to save others.”
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson echoed that sentiment, stating, “The quick response saved lives.”
The FBI has joined the investigation. Federal officials said it remains early in the inquiry, but evidence recovered from the suspect and the vehicle indicates a “potential nexus to terrorism“.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said officers approached the suspect’s vehicle cautiously out of concern for possible explosives; however, no explosive devices were located.
Authorities are asking anyone searching for loved ones connected to the incident to contact APD Victim Services at 512-974-5037 or go to Austin Police Headquarters, 715 East 8th Street.
Anyone with videos, photos, or information related to the shooting is urged to submit evidence through the Austin Police Department evidence portal or call 512-974-TIPS. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Capital Area Crime Stoppers at 512-472-8477 or online at austincrimestoppers.org.
The investigation remains active.
