In the early hours of Sunday morning, a night of celebration turned into unimaginable horror outside Buford’s Backyard Beer Garden on Austin’s iconic Sixth Street. At approximately 2 a.m., gunfire erupted from a passing SUV, shattering the lively atmosphere of the popular bar district near the University of Texas campus. Authorities have confirmed three fatalities—including the suspected gunman—and 14 others wounded in what the FBI is investigating as a potential act of terrorism.
Among those tragically killed was Lauren Fuller, the younger half-sister of WNBA star and former UConn standout Paige Bueckers. Lauren, in her early 20s and a resident of Montana, had been visiting friends in Texas for a weekend getaway. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as patrons scattered in panic while the shooter, later identified as 53-year-old Ndiaga Diagne, fired both a pistol and rifle before being fatally shot by responding officers.
Paige Bueckers, who has often spoken warmly of her close-knit blended family—including half-siblings Lauren, Ryan, and Drew—has yet to issue a public statement amid the family’s profound grief. Sources close to the Bueckers family say Paige was immediately notified and is en route to be with loved ones. Lauren, described by those who knew her as vibrant, supportive, and a quiet but fierce cheerleader for her sister’s basketball career, had maintained a low profile despite her sister’s fame. She was known for occasional social media posts celebrating family milestones and her sister’s achievements.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the basketball community and beyond. Tributes have begun pouring in online, with fans and athletes alike expressing heartbreak over the senseless violence that claimed an innocent life. Austin police and federal investigators continue to probe the motive, with early reports noting items on the suspect suggesting ideological influences.
This senseless act has left a family devastated and a city mourning. As details emerge, the focus remains on honoring the victims, including Lauren Fuller, whose bright spirit was cut short far too soon. Our thoughts are with the Bueckers family and all those affected by this tragedy
