FBI Foils Deadly Texas Man’s Plot Targeting Buc-ee’s and Local Schools

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KPEL News) - A mass shooting plot targeting a popular Buc-ee’s location and two New Braunfels high schools was thwarted earlier this year, thanks to coordinated efforts between federal and local law enforcement.

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Cameron Darrick Peterson, a 20-year-old from New Braunfels, recently pled guilty in federal court after authorities uncovered his chilling plan for mass violence, which included attacks on the busy Buc-ee’s travel center and two area high schools, Canyon High School and New Braunfels High School.

Peterson’s plot, if carried out, could have led to significant loss of life at locations that are central to the Texas community.

Detailed Plans to Attack Buc-ee’s and Local Schools

According to court records, Peterson began formulating his plan in November 2022, envisioning a dual-phase attack that would start with an assault on Buc-ee’s.

His intent was to use the Buc-ee’s attack as a “distraction” before moving on to the two high schools. This planned sequence was particularly disturbing given Buc-ee’s status as a beloved Texas landmark, drawing heavy daily traffic from families, travelers, and locals alike.

The high schools, Canyon and New Braunfels, are also key community institutions where hundreds of students, faculty, and families would have been at risk.

A former student at Canyon High School, Peterson initially came under scrutiny in January 2023 when he attempted to purchase a 12-gauge shotgun from Comal Pawn.

Although denied due to age restrictions, Peterson continued preparing for his planned attack. Investigators found that he had started building improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and had the materials to construct at least ten additional explosives.

Evidence Uncovered by Federal Agents

Federal agents searching Peterson’s residence discovered a cache of disturbing materials, including one fully constructed IED, additional bomb-making materials, and ammunition. Peterson’s social media activity also provided crucial evidence.

At one point, he recorded a video with his girlfriend in a New Braunfels park, discussing his violent plans and outlining his intention to use the Buc-ee’s attack as a diversion, enabling him to strike at the schools with minimal interference.

In May 2023, Peterson made a second attempt to purchase a firearm but was flagged again after providing misleading information on his federal ATF form. By this time, law enforcement had grown increasingly concerned that he might accelerate his plans and attempt to execute the attacks sooner than expected.

Heightened Security and Swift Action to Prevent the Attack

In response to the escalating threat, authorities took extra precautions at the two targeted high schools during graduation ceremonies in May and early June. The goal was to ensure the safety of students, families, and staff while law enforcement worked to secure Peterson’s arrest. On June 5, 2023,

Peterson was taken into custody, bringing an end to his plot and removing the threat to these vital community spaces.

The planned attack on Buc-ee’s was particularly alarming for many Texans. Known for its wide array of snacks, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Buc-ee’s is a staple for Texas travelers and an iconic part of the state’s culture.

Peterson’s choice to target such a beloved destination underscored the potential devastation his plan could have inflicted on the local community.

Guilty Plea and Potential Sentencing

Peterson’s guilty plea could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years, depending on the judge’s ruling at his sentencing hearing scheduled for early 2025. Originally, he faced charges that could have led to a much harsher sentence of 20 years to life. His cooperation with authorities following his arrest was a factor in reaching the plea agreement.

This case underscores the seriousness of domestic threats and highlights the vigilance required to keep public spaces safe. U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza expressed the importance of addressing threats to community institutions, especially places as central to Texas culture as Buc-ee’s and local schools.

Law Enforcement and Community Cooperation Key to Public Safety

With the case now resolved, Texas residents are reminded of the vital role that community awareness plays in public safety. Law enforcement encourages people to report suspicious behavior, emphasizing that vigilance and cooperation can make a crucial difference in preventing violence.

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting public spaces that hold significant meaning to Texans. The swift action by law enforcement safeguarded Buc-ee’s, Canyon High School, New Braunfels High School, and the larger Texas community from a potentially devastating event.

You can read the Department of Justice's full press release on the plot here.