AUSTIN, Texas — A Texas Tech University student has been identified as one of the two victims killed in Sunday’s mass shooting at a popular downtown Austin bar.
Ryder Harrington, 22, was remembered as a “beloved son, brother, and friend” by his fraternity, which set up a GoFundMe page in his honor. “From the moment he joined our brotherhood, he brought a light that was impossible to ignore,” the tribute reads. The page also notes Harrington’s “kindness and presence touched countless lives” and has already raised more than $48,000 toward its $50,000 goal.
Authorities say the suspect, 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, a Senegalese immigrant-turned-U.S. citizen, opened fire outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden around 2 a.m., just as the bar was closing. Diagne, who wore a “Property of Allah” sweatshirt, was shot and killed by police after killing Harrington and one other victim, and wounding 14 more. Investigators say evidence found in Diagne’s vehicle suggests he may have acted in retaliation for recent U.S. military strikes in Iran.
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows offered condolences, calling Harrington’s death “especially close to home” for his team. Former Texas Tech University System Chancellor Kent Hance also lauded Harrington’s character and condemned the attack, saying, “May he rest in peace. Pray for his family.”
