Austin 'No Kings' protests: Man arrested for making threats against state lawmakers

AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas Department of Public Safety says it has arrested a man in connection with the threats that were made against state lawmakers who planned to attend protests at the Texas Capitol.

What they're saying:

Sources told our sister station FOX 26 in Houston that a tip came from Katy that two individuals were going to shoot up the Capitol. Through their investigation, officers were able to stop a vehicle with the suspects in La Grange.

Just after 5 p. m., Texas DPS posted on X that a man's arrest took place after a traffic stop in La Grange.

It's not clear at this time the status of the other individual that was reportedly in the vehicle.

Officials say there is no additional active threat.

The Texas DPS says it's an active and ongoing investigation and more information will be released as it becomes available.

The backstory:

Texas DPS says it evacuated the Capitol and Capitol Grounds at around 1 p.m. after the threats.

The Capitol building and grounds were closed but reopened in time for the "No Kings" rally and protests at 5 p.m.

The Texas House Democratic Caucus asked Gov. Greg Abbott for protection

In a statement released by the Texas House Democratic Caucus, the Texas House Democrats asked Gov. Abbott for immediate action to protect elected officials from extremist violence.

"Today, in light of the assassination of Speaker Emerita Hortman and the announcement that a credible threat was made against Texas legislators, 44 Texas House Democratic lawmakers signed a letter to state leaders demanding immediate action to protect all Texas elected officials following the politically motivated assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband."

House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu wrote in the letter sent to Governor Abbott and DPS Director Freeman F. Martin, requesting immediate answers about what steps will be taken to protect legislators and elected officials across Texas.

"With credible threats now targeting Texas lawmakers, Texas House Democrats are asking Governor Abbott and state leadership to take immediate action to protect those serving our state before we face a similar tragedy here."