Texas Tech University releases statement about loss of recent student

The Texas Tech University community is mourning the loss of a recent student who was killed in what authorities suspect was a terror attack Sunday morning in Austin.

On Sunday, it was confirmed that Ryder Harrington, 19, was killed in the mass shooting at 6th Street in Austin that left two others killed — including the suspected gunman — and over a dozen injured.

Harrington was a recent Texas Tech University student who had attended classes at the university’s main campus in Lubbock, Texas.

Allison Hirth, vice president for Marketing & Communications at Texas Tech, released the following statement on behalf of the university.

“We are saddened to learn of the tragic incident in Austin that resulted in the loss of life,” the statement reads. “Mr. Ryder Harrington had previously been enrolled at Texas Tech University, most recently during the Fall 2025 semester, but was not enrolled this semester. Our thoughts are with Ryder’s family, friends, and all those affected by this devastating situation.”

Texas Tech University System Chancellor Brandon Crieghton also released a statement via social media on the loss of Harrington.

“Tamarah and I are praying for the Harrington family as they face the tragic loss of Ryder,” the statement reads. “This senseless act of violence has shaken both the Texas Tech community and our extended family at the Texas Capitol. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this unimaginable time of grief.”

According to the FBI, the shooting is being reviewed as a terror attack.