Texas, FBI Stop Capitol Terror Plot Ahead of October 1 Attack
Texas DPS and FBI thwarted a terror threat targeting the state Capitol in Austin, capturing suspect Benny Caldera Jr.
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San Antonio, Texas — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) successfully thwarted a planned terror attack on the Texas State Capitol in Austin, capturing suspect Benny Caldera Jr. before the attack could occur. Caldera, a 40-year-old man, was taken into custody early Wednesday morning after a DPS SWAT team located him at his residence in Converse, a suburban city 13 miles northeast of San Antonio.
Credible Threat and Rapid Response
The DPS received information about a credible threat to attack the Texas State Capitol on October 1, 2026. After determining the threat was real, DPS and FBI personnel collaborated to investigate and identify the suspect. Through careful tracking of the limited information provided, they were able to locate Caldera and take him into custody without incident.
Public Statements and Security Measures
Following the arrest, Texas Governor Greg Abbott praised the efforts of DPS and FBI agents on social media, stating, “Texas DPS and the FBI stopped a planned attack on the Texas Capitol. Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol. Thank you, TxDPS, for a job well done.”
As a precaution, DPS increased security at the Capitol as the investigation continues. Although few details have been released about the nature or motive of the attack, a report by NBC 5 DFW indicated that a friend of Caldera told DPS investigators that Caldera had said, “I am going to the Capitol, and I am going to shoot it up.” The acquaintance also reported that Caldera was angry at AIPAIC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee), adding, “these people have to be exterminated.”
FBI Director Commends Joint Efforts
FBI Director Kash Patel echoed Governor Abbott’s comments on social media, praising the joint efforts of DPS and FBI agents. He stated, “Outstanding work by @TxDPS. Proud of our @FBISanAntonio team for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our state and local partners. Within HOURS of tip, @TxDPS had the main suspect in custody with @FBISanAntonio and local law enforcement assisting.”
Arrest and Detention Details
Caldera was transported to the Bexar County Jail after being charged with a terroristic threat against a public servant. The Texas Department of Public Safety updated his detention status in a late Wednesday night statement, noting that Caldera was arrested by the FBI at the Bexar County Jail to face additional federal charges in connection with a possible planned attack at the Texas State Capitol. He was then released into federal custody, where he will remain. He is not out on bond. At this time, there is no reason to believe there is an ongoing threat to the Texas State Capitol. DPS will continue to maintain an increased security posture at the Capitol and encourages all Texans to remain vigilant.
Source: Breitbart
