A Texas man accused of planning a mass shooting at the Texas State Capitol was arrested before dawn Wednesday after law enforcement received credible information about the threat, sources told ABC News. Benny Caldera, 40, of Converse, Texas, was taken into custody at his home at approximately 3 a.m. by Texas Department of Public Safety SWAT officers.
According to a notice sent by Texas Senate Secretary Patsy Spaw to state senators, the alleged attack was planned for October 1. The FBI, DPS SWAT, and other law enforcement agencies coordinated to make the arrest at Caldera’s residence just outside San Antonio.
Guns, Ammo, and a Growing Threat
An official briefed on Texas Capitol shooting threat arrest told ABC News that Caldera had been threatening to carry out a mass shooting at the Capitol and had been collecting ammunition and firearms in preparation. Detectives were working to obtain search warrants to determine whether any co-conspirators were involved in the alleged plot.
People who knew Caldera had notified authorities that he was growing increasingly angry and appeared potentially violent in recent weeks. The official said Caldera had voiced anger over the state and direction of the country.
Caldera Booked in Bexar County Jail
Caldera was booked into the Bexar County Jail and charged with felony terroristic threat against a public servant, according to DPS. His wife was also not cooperating with investigators, though other family members and co-workers agreed to speak with authorities.
Spaw’s notice to senators noted that the threat was not cause for ongoing alarm, but that she wanted legislators to be informed. “The investigation is ongoing, and there is and will continue to be an enhanced DPS presence at the Capitol,” the notice read.
What Comes Next for the Investigation
Investigators are pressing forward with efforts to determine the full scope of the alleged plot, including whether anyone else may have been involved. Search warrants are being sought as part of that process.
DPS has confirmed it will maintain a heightened security presence at the Texas State Capitol as the investigation continues. No additional suspects have been publicly identified.
