GettyImages-612489244.jpg
An initial warning went out from the Department of Public Safety went to Texas state lawmakers and their staffs just after noon on Saturday, warning of a " credible threat towards state legislators attending today's protest at the State Capitol has been identified by Capitol Region DPS.
" The Texas Capitol and Grounds were evacuated around 1 p.m. Saturday after Texas DPS identified a credible threat toward state lawmakers planning to attend the "No Kings" protest later today. The Capitol Grounds have since reopened, but the building remains closed. Texas lawmakers were warned by the Department of Public Safety of a credible threat made against them, hours after the shootings of two Minnesota state lawmakers Saturday morning, multiple people familiar with the matter confirm to CBS Austin. " Multiple sources confirmed shortly thereafter that Capitol administrators in both the House and Senate sent more detailed notices from Department of Public Safety Director Freeman Martin warning them of the Minnesota shootings. "I am in communication with our federal partners, and currently, it seems to be an isolated incident," Martin wrote in the memo, referring to the Minnesota shootings. "However, we're always concerned about copycats and those who this attack might inspire. Your safety is our top priority, and we are taking all necessary precautions to address any potential threats. Please remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have concerns."In their notices, DPS did not identify any further details on the nature of the threat to lawmakers. Notedly, the large "No Kings" protest set to take place at the Texas Capitol on Saturday is a left-leaning one, criticizing the Trump Administration. City and state leaders have warned against violence at these protests, which are also taking place across Texas and the nation. Ahead of the protest, Governor Greg Abbott deployed more than 5,000 National Guard soldiers across the state to respond to the demonstrations and be on standby, as well as more than 2,000 DPS troopers responding. Several city leaders, including in Austin, have criticized the move as a militarization of the law enforcement response to such demonstrations.
Texas Lawmakers Credible Threat Department Of Public Safety No Kings Protest Minnesota Shootings National Guard Governor Greg Abbott
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Texas Legislature moves to build Texas Life Memorial on Capitol groundsApproval of the monument comes as the lower chamber prepares to debate the “Life of the Mother Act” bill later this week.
Read more »
Texas Legislature moves to build Texas Life Memorial on Capitol groundsApproval of the monument comes as the lower chamber prepares to debate the “Life of the Mother Act” bill later this week.
Read more »
Texas Moves to Put Unborn Jesus Pro-Life Statue on Capitol GroundsDonor-funded Texas Life Monument was approved by House and Senate
Read more »
Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger retires Friday, after rebuilding department in wake of Capitol riotCapitol Police Chief Thomas Manger, who's led the department since the Capitol riot, spoke with CBS News before his retirement.
Read more »
Veterans Arrested on Capitol Grounds on Eve of DC Parade, Trump BirthdayVeterans staged a protest at the U.S. Capitol over cuts to the VA, 'fascism' and Trump's much-touted $45 million military parade.
Read more »
Texas Department of Public Safety closes Capitol grounds following 'credible threat' to lawmakersCredible death threat prompts Texas Capitol evacuation as credible death threat was discovered, with officials investigating amid heightened security concerns
Read more »