The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed Wednesday that agents foiled a plan to attack the Texas State Capitol in Austin.
According to Texas DPS, officers received credible information Thursday of a person planning a violent attack on the Texas State Capitol.
Texas DPS said its Criminal Investigation Division special agents were working alongside the FBI to investigate the validity of the threat and the circumstances surrounding the planned attack.
Around 3 a.m. Wednesday, DPS SWAT arrested Benny Caldera Jr., 40, at his residence in Converse, about 15 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio, Texas DPS said.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, DPS officers spoke to Caldera’s friend, who said he “made verbal threats to attack the Texas State Capitol building.”
Caldera’s friend told officers that Caldera said, “I love you, if you don’t see me again” and explained that “I’m going to the Capitol and I’m going to shoot it up,” according to arrest documents.
The arrest documents further state that Caldera told his friend that he was angry at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and that “these people need to be exterminated.”
Caldera was transported to the Bexar County Jail and charged with making a terroristic threat to a public servant. He was later released on $75,000 bail.
Bexar County court records show Caldera was previously charged with carrying a gun without a license in November 2023.
According to Texas DPS, leaders informed lawmakers of the threat and arrest Wednesday, and the Capitol remains open during normal operating hours.
Texas DPS said officers will continue to have an increased presence at the Texas Capitol to protect employees, visitors and state officials.
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