Potential Attack on Texas Capitol Thwarted
On Wednesday, Texas law enforcement announced it had received reliable information regarding a planned violent attack on the state’s capitol in Austin. This intelligence led to the arrest of a suspect.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) informed Newsweek that a tipoff received on Tuesday night instigated the arrest of Benny Caldera Jr., aged 40, at his residence in Converse early Wednesday morning.
According to DPS, the suspect faces charges of felony terroristic threat against a public servant and is currently held at the Bexar County Jail.
The department released a statement indicating that DPS leadership briefed Texas State Legislators on the threat and subsequent arrest earlier today. The Texas Capitol remains open for regular business hours.
The statement added that DPS would maintain an enhanced security presence at the Texas Capitol to safeguard all employees, visitors, and state officials. The department noted that this remains an active investigation and thus refrained from providing further details.
Details concerning the intended target of the attack remain unclear. Texas DPS collaborated with the FBI and local partners throughout this investigation.
The FBI directed inquiries to DPS when contacted for comment.
Governor Greg Abbott addressed the situation on X Wednesday evening, stating, “Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol. Thank you, [Texas DPS], for a job well done.”
This story is developing, and additional updates will be provided.