A 21-year-old Indian-American student was among three people killed in a deadly shooting at a crowded nightlife area in Austin, Texas, prompting authorities to investigate a possible connection to the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.

The victim has been identified as Savitha Shan, a student at the University of Texas. Two others killed in the incident were 19-year-old Ryder Harrington and 30-year-old Jorge Pederson.

According to reports by AP and BBC, investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are examining whether the attack has a potential “nexus of terrorism”, although officials say it is still too early to determine a clear motive.

Shooting at busy nightlife district

The shooting took place on Sunday on Sixth Street, a well-known nightlife hub in Austin packed with bars, clubs and students, particularly from nearby universities.

Also Read | 'Too late': Donald Trump rejects Iran's call for talks as regional strikes escalate

Authorities said the suspect, identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, drove past Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden before opening fire on the crowd with a rifle. Panic spread quickly through the area as people rushed to find cover while the gunfire continued. Police later confronted the suspect and fatally shot him.

Investigators have not yet confirmed why the shooting took place. Officials from both the FBI and the Austin Police Department have said it is too early in the investigation to establish the motive.

Suspect’s clothing raises questions

According to AP, the suspect was wearing clothing with an Iranian flag design and the words “Property of Allah” at the time of the shooting. This detail has led federal investigators to explore whether there could be any link between the attack and the broader geopolitical tensions involving Iran. Authorities have not confirmed any direct connection so far.

University President Jim Davis said the pistol and rifle used in the shooting were legally purchased by Diagne several years ago in San Antonio.

Also Read | ‘Depart now’: US urges citizens to leave 15 Middle East countries amid escalating tensions

Who was Savitha Shan?

21-year-old, Savitha Shan, an Indian American, was a management information systems and economics major at the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas. She was expected to graduate in May this year.

Her professors described her as an exceptional student. In a post on X, assistant professor Russ Finney called her one of the school’s “superstar students”, adding that she was "Involved in student organisations - a light in the classroom." "Absolutely crushing to lose her."

Meanwhile, AP reported that Diagne was originally from Senegal and entered the US in 2000 on a B-2 tourist visa. He later became a lawful permanent resident after marrying an American citizen six years later. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.