3 dead, 14 injured in mass shooting on 6th Street, suspect fatally shot by officers

AUSTIN, TX — Three people are dead and 14 others are injured following a mass shooting at Buford’s on West 6th Street early Sunday, officials said. A suspect was fatally shot by police officers at the scene.

Austin-Travis County EMS Chief Robert Luckritz said paramedics received the call at 1:59 a.m. and the first responders were on scene within 57 seconds. Of the 17 total patients treated, three were pronounced dead at the scene and 14 were transported to area hospitals. Three were in critical condition.

Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said officers who had been working the nearby East 6th Street entertainment corridor rapidly responded to the scene as bars were closing for the night.

“Officers immediately transitioned, came over East 6th to West 6th Street and were faced with the individual with a gun,” Davis said. “Three of our officers returned fire, killing the suspect.”

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson offered condolences to victims and praised the swift response of first responders.

“They definitely saved lives,” Watson said.

Davis noted that federal law enforcement partners are also involved in the investigation, and that processing the scene would take several hours. More information is expected throughout the day.

The identities of the victims and the suspect have not been released.

Authorities asked the public to avoid the area.

CBS Austin has a crew on the scene.

The investigation is ongoing.

Community members who are searching for loved ones related to the shooting can call APD’s Victim Services Unit at 512-974-5037.

Local leaders have begun reacting to the shooting.

“Today’s 6th Street shooting has left our city shaken, grieving, and looking for answers,” Austin City Council member Vanessa Fuentes said in a statement. “To the victims, their families, and loved ones: our hearts are with you during this tragic time. To our first responders who were able to rapidly secure the scene and administer life-saving aid: thank you. Your brave, professional response undoubtedly saved lives.”

“We must end America’s gun violence epidemic,” Congressman Greg Casar said in a statement on social media. “Americans should be able to have fun at a bar without it turning into an unspeakable nightmare like this one— and I will redouble my efforts in Congress to prevent the next tragedy like this.”

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.