Indian-Origin Student Savitha Shan Family Calls Killing in Austin Shooting a Terrorist Attack

The family of 21-year-old Savitha Shan has spoken publicly for the first time after she was identified as one of the victims in a deadly shooting at an Austin bar over the weekend. The University of Texas student was killed in the early hours of Sunday in an attack that has left the campus community and her loved ones in deep mourning.

In a statement released following her identification, Savitha’s parents described her as their “beloved daughter” and only child. “She was 21 years of age and our only child. Our hearts are broken beyond words,” they said, expressing overwhelming grief over what they called a tragic and senseless act of violence. The family said her sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in their lives and in the lives of all who knew her.

A senior at the University of Texas at Austin, Savitha was enrolled at the McCombs School of Business, where she was pursuing a dual degree. In their tribute, her parents described her as bright, compassionate and deeply caring. “She believed in working hard, serving others, and living with integrity,” the statement read, highlighting her dedication to academics and community service.

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University leaders and faculty also paid tribute to the young student. UT Austin President Jim Davis wrote to the campus community, remembering her as “a child of loving parents, a loyal friend to many, and a Longhorn preparing to change the world.” Faculty members described her as academically exceptional and professionally driven, with plans to begin her career at a major professional services firm after graduation.

The shooting occurred just before 2 a.m. outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden, a popular bar near the university campus. Authorities said multiple people were shot during the incident. By Monday evening, the Austin Police Department confirmed that the suspect, identified as Ndiaga Diagne, had been fatally shot by law enforcement officers. In total, fourteen others were injured, some critically. Two additional victims were later identified as Jorge Pederson and Ruder Harrington.

The tragedy has unfolded amid heightened security concerns nationwide following escalating military tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran. As investigations continue, Savitha’s family said they are holding in their hearts not only their daughter but also the other victims and families affected by the attack, calling for strength and solidarity during an unimaginably painful time.

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