Austin bar mass shooting ‘may be terrorism’ after three killed in beer garden

A gunman who opened fire at random on a busy beer garden is being investigated for links to terrorism.

At least three people were killed at Buford’s bar, a popular beer garden in Austin, Texas, at about 2am on Sunday before the attacker was shot dead by police.

The early investigation shows that gunman, believed to be a 15-year naturalised American citizen from Senegal, circled the block around the bar several times in an SUV before opening fire.

‘At one point, he put his flashers on, pulled down his window and began using a pistol shooting out of his car windows, striking patrons of the bar that were on the patio, and out in front of the bar,’ Austin

The suspect then parked the car and walked out with a rifle, shooting some others who were walking by.

At least 14 people were injured, three critically.

Alex Doran, a special agent with the San Antonio FBI field office, told reporters: ‘There were indicators that on the subject and in his vehicle that indicate potential nexus to terrorism.

‘Again, it’s still too early to make a determination on that.’

No more details were released on the gunman with police are also probing links to his mental health.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson hailed the response by police and first responders, which officials said took only 57 seconds.

‘I’m very thankful for the speed,’ said Watson. ‘They definitely saved lives.’