CONVERSE, Texas – A man from Converse has been arrested for allegedly planning a violent attack on the Texas State Capitol, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Benny Caldera Jr., who is 40 years old, was taken into custody on Wednesday. He faces serious charges for making a terroristic threat against a public servant, which is classified as a third-degree felony. This means that if he is convicted, he could face significant legal consequences.
The DPS reported that they received a tip on Tuesday about a plot to attack the Capitol that was reportedly scheduled for October 1, 2026. This information prompted an urgent response from law enforcement.
Agents from both the DPS and the FBI arrested Caldera around 3 a.m. at his home in Converse. The investigation into this matter is still ongoing, and authorities are working to uncover more details about the planned attack.
Following his arrest, Caldera was booked into the Bexar County Adult Detention Center, where he is being held on a bond set at $75,000. This amount reflects the seriousness of the charges against him.
Despite the recent events, the Texas Capitol remains open to the public during its regular operating hours, according to the DPS. This indicates that officials believe there is no immediate threat to public safety at the Capitol.
If you notice any suspicious behavior or have concerns about safety, you can report it through the iWatchTexas mobile app, visit their website at iwatchtx.org, or call their hotline at 844-643-2251. Taking proactive steps to report suspicious activity helps keep the community safe.
In related news, there was also an incident involving a girl stabbing a boy at Metzger Middle School, as reported by a Judson ISD board member. Such events highlight the importance of safety and awareness in our schools and communities.
