‘Credible’ Attack Halted at Texas State Capitol, Suspect Arrested: DPS - Newsweek

A 40-year-old man from the San Antonio area faces a felony charge, accused of threatening to head to the Texas Capitol in Austin to "shoot it up," authorities said.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) told Newsweek that it received the tip about the plot Tuesday night, leading to the Wednesday morning arrest of Benny Caldera Jr., 40, at his home in Converse. He was charged with making terroristic threat against a public servant and posted a $75,000 bond, according to records.

According to an arrest warrant affidavit cited by NBC DFW and other outlets, Caldera told a friend he was "going to the Capitol and I am going to shoot it up." The affidavit also alleges he told the friend: "I love you, if you don't see me again."

"DPS leadership notified Texas State Legislators of the threat and arrest earlier today, and the Texas Capitol remains open for regular operating hours," the department said in a statement. "DPS will continue to have an increased posture at the Texas Capitol to protect all employees, visitors and state officials.

The intended target of the alleged threat is unclear, authorities said.

Texas DPS worked the case with the FBI and local law enforcement. The FBI deferred to DPS when reached for comment.

FBI Director Kash Patel commended law enforcement's quick response on X: "Within HOURS of the tip, @TxDPS had the main suspect in custody — with @FBISanAntonio and local law enforcement assisting," he wrote.

The state's governor, Greg Abbott, posted to X Wednesday evening, "Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol. Thank you, [Texas DPS], for a job well done."

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.

Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Edward T. Cummins