US mass shooting possibly motivated by Iran strikes – media (VIDEOS)

The gunman who killed two people and injured over a dozen in Texas may have been motivated by US strikes on Iran that killed the country’s Supreme Leader and caused widespread civilian casualties, according to law enforcement sources cited by US media.

The attack occurred in a busy nightlife district in Austin near the University of Texas shortly before 2am on Sunday.

The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, opened fire outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, killing two people and injuring at least 14 others. The naturalized US citizen, originally from Senegal, drove past the venue several times before stopping and firing a pistol from his SUV at people gathered outside, according to Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis.

The attacker then exited the vehicle armed with a rifle and continued shooting at pedestrians before responding officers shot and killed him.

Photos released by the authorities show the suspect carrying a rifle and wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with the words “Property of Allah.” According to AP and Fox News sources, he also wore clothing displaying an Iranian flag.

A law enforcement source familiar with the investigation told the New York Post that the violence was “potentially an act of vengeance over the US attack on Iran.” 

Alex Doran, the acting agent in charge of the FBI’s San Antonio office, said the shooting was being investigated as a potential act of terrorism. “It’s still too early to make a determination on that,” Doran added.