PRAIRIELAND, TX – A coordinated attack on the Prairieland Detention Center left an Alvarado police officer fighting for his life and federal agents under fire this weekend, authorities announced today. Ten individuals are now facing federal charges, accused of staging an ambush that could have resulted in far greater bloodshed.
Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson, alongside FBI Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock, and Enforcement Removal Operations Dallas Acting Field Office Director Joshua Johnson, detailed a disturbing scene. According to a criminal complaint, the suspects, clad in black military-style gear, initiated the assault by launching fireworks at the facility. This quickly escalated as a group splintered off to vandalize vehicles and a guard structure with graffiti.
The situation turned critical when the Alvarado police officer responded to the 911 call reporting suspicious activity. One suspect allegedly opened fire, striking the officer in the neck. Simultaneously, another assailant across the street unleashed a barrage of 20 to 30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers who had ventured outside the detention center. Authorities recovered AR-style rifles at the scene. The suspects fled, but were quickly apprehended thanks to a swift response from multiple law enforcement agencies.
The investigation revealed a disturbing level of preparation. Twelve sets of body armor were discovered during searches of vehicles and the surrounding area. Along with the body armor, officers found spray paint, flyers proclaiming “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR!” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS,” and a flag reading “RESIST FACISM – FIGHT OLIGARCHY.” One suspect attempted to evade tracking by concealing cell phones in a Faraday bag, a tactic commonly employed by those attempting to shield their communications.
Those charged in a single complaint with three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence are: Cameron Arnold, Savanna Batten, Nathan Baumann, Zachary Evetts, Joy Gibson, Bradford Morris, Maricela Rueda, Seth Sikes, Elizabeth Soto, and Ines Soto. Evidence collected includes photographs of the graffiti, flyers, flag, body armor, and ammunition magazines.
“Make no mistake, this was not a peaceful protest,” Larson stated bluntly. “This was an ambush on federal and local law enforcement officers. This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated in the Northern District of Texas.” Rothrock echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dangers faced by officers daily, while Johnson warned that such “vigilante lawlessness” will not deter ICE officers from their duties. The complaint serves as an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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