SAN ANTONIO – Authorities in San Antonio have arrested a man following reports of alarming threats directed at New York Knicks fans who planned to attend Game 5 of the NBA Finals. The arrest was made based on an affidavit that details the threatening communications sent via social media.
Michael Rodriguez, 44, faces charges for making a terroristic threat, according to records from Bexar County. This incident highlights the growing concern regarding safety at public sporting events, particularly in the context of intense rivalries.
The situation unfolded when a woman, who had known Rodriguez for nearly a decade, reported to law enforcement after receiving disturbing messages through Facebook Messenger on June 12, just one day prior to the high-stakes game between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks.
In these messages, Rodriguez allegedly made several violent remarks, stating, “Knicks fans are gonna get stomped on by me and the west side” and “getting my weapons ready it’s hunting season.” Such statements raised alarm bells, leading the recipient to believe that he intended to harm attendees of the game.
The affidavit indicates that the woman expressed her fears to investigators, particularly noting Rodriguez’s history of firearm possession. This detail, combined with the nature of his messages, provided law enforcement with probable cause to act.
Investigators concluded that Rodriguez’s threats were serious enough to potentially incite fear among a substantial group of the public, which is a critical factor in defining terroristic threats under Texas law.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Rodriguez was also found to have an outstanding warrant related to a previous incident of discharging a firearm within city limits. This history further underscored the urgency of the response from law enforcement officials.
Rodriguez was subsequently booked into the Bexar County Adult Detention Center on Saturday, where he awaits further legal proceedings. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the need for prompt action in response to threats of violence, especially during events that bring together large crowds.
