30-Year-Old MMA Star with ‘Bright Future’ Identified as Third Victim Killed in Mass Shooting Outside Austin Bar

**Tragedy Strikes Austin as Third Victim of Mass Shooting Identified**

Austin, Texas — The city of Austin is reeling from the aftermath of a mass shooting that occurred outside Buford’s bar on March 1. Authorities have confirmed that the latest victim, Jorge Pederson, aged 30, succumbed to injuries sustained during the shooting, marking him as the third casualty connected to the incident.

According to the Austin Police Department (APD), emergency services were dispatched to Buford’s bar, located on West Sixth Street, in the early hours of Sunday morning. Pederson was among several individuals injured when a gunman opened fire, leading to a chaotic scene and multiple casualties.

Tragically, Pederson died on March 2 after being removed from life support, as reported by NBC News. His death casts a shadow over the combat sports community, as Pederson had made a name for himself as a promising mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter from Minnesota. The promotional organisation IGNITE shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, describing him as “a lively, funny and charismatic fighter with a bright future”. They expressed their grief, stating they had recently planned for his professional debut on May 16.

The tribute highlighted the senselessness of the violence, commenting on the broader societal issues contributing to such tragedies. “The political strife and senseless violence we have in this world right now is hard to wake up to every day,” the post lamented.

In addition to Pederson, two other victims were confirmed dead due to the shooting. Ryder Harrington, 19, a Texas Tech University student, and Savitha Shan, 21, who was enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin, also tragically lost their lives. Their families and friends have taken to social media to remember them fondly and to seek support in the wake of their losses.

Harrington’s fraternity brothers established a GoFundMe page in his honour, reflecting on his role as a “beloved son, brother, and friend whose kindness and presence touched countless lives.” The fundraising campaign has raised over £80,000 at press time, illustrating how deeply his community feels his absence.

Shan’s academic institution also expressed its condolences. University of Texas President Jim Davis released a statement acknowledging the weight of the tragedy. “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred early this morning in downtown Austin. Our prayers are with the victims and all those impacted,” he said, emphasising the profound loss felt by the university community.

The violent outbreak has not only claimed innocent lives but has also raised serious concerns regarding the motives behind the attack. The alleged gunman, Ndiaga Diagne, aged 53, was shot and killed by police at the scene. Investigators are exploring possible links to terrorism, noting Diagne was found wearing a sweatshirt with the phrase “Property of Allah,” combined with an Iranian flag.

As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the pain and senseless nature of the violence. Fundraisers have emerged in support of the victims and their families, with over £8,000 being raised in Pederson’s name thus far.

The tragedy at Buford’s bar serves as yet another stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding gun violence and public safety, prompting calls for renewed conversations about the need for change. Community members are united in their grief while searching for ways to honour those lost in such senseless violence.

The Austin Police Department is working alongside federal agencies, including the FBI, to uncover the full details of the incident and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their loved ones.