On March 1, 2026, Savita Shan and Ryder Harrington were killed in an event. Just before two in the morning, a mass shooting outside Buford’s bar on West 6th Street in Austin, Texas, claimed the lives of two bright young students. Friends, family, and the entire university community were devastated by the unexpected and senseless loss that ruined what should have been a typical night out.
The shooting unfolded when fifty three year old Ndiaga Diagne opened fire on patrons at the popular bar and along the sidewalk striking Savita and Ryder among others before Austin police officers responded and fatally shot the gunman at the scene.
Fourteen additional people were injured in the attack with at least one later taken off life support and several remaining in critical condition as investigators from Austin police and the FBI continue to examine every detail including possible motives. The vibrant entertainment district that draws thousands of young people each weekend became the site of unimaginable grief in a matter of moments.
Savita Shan, 21-year-old was a driven and accomplished dual degree student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing rigorous studies that combined her passions for management information systems economics and computer science. Her academic excellence and determination reflected a bright future filled with potential as she balanced demanding coursework with active involvement in campus life that showcased her intellectual curiosity and commitment to excellence.
GoFundMe: Ryder Harrington 19-years-old brought a vibrant joyful presence to every space he entered as a Texas Tech University student and proud member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity Fall 2024 pledge class. His energy lit up rooms with kindness and humor making every gathering more memorable whether on campus in Lubbock or during visits to Austin where he enjoyed connecting with friends and embracing new experiences. Ryder’s outgoing spirit and ability to make others feel included defined his short but impactful time as a college student and fraternity brother.
The Austin community has responded with an outpouring of support as flowers memorials and candlelight gatherings appeared near the scene while GoFundMe pages and university statements honor the victims and aid their families. Students from both UT Austin and Texas Tech have shared stories of how Savita and Ryder touched their lives through everyday kindnesses and shared moments that now serve as lasting reminders of the young people taken far too soon. This collective mourning highlights the deep connections formed in college years and the void left by their absence.
