Teen Arrested Over Alleged Plot to Kill Texas Lawmaker

Federal authorities have arrested a 17-year-old from McKinney on suspicion of plotting to assassinate Representative Keith Self, a Republican congressman currently seeking a third term in office.

Campaign officials confirmed the details of the case to NBC 5, noting that the teen was taken into custody by the FBI on Oct. 5. The congressional team learned of the detention the following day through U.S. Capitol Police. Investigators told the campaign that the suspect had been monitored by federal agents and was believed to be radicalized. Authorities indicated that the teen was planning a terrorist attack in the name of ISIS, with Self as the primary target.

The intended venue for the attack was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for Oct. 17. The event was to feature former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests. Self’s campaign manager stated that the team increased their security measures and situational awareness as early voting continued across the state in response to the intelligence.

Representative Self, who has deployed into combat zones multiple times, described his reaction to the news as measured rather than panicked. He noted that his military background helped him maintain composure after the arrest. His wife, a former military spouse of 25 years, also took the threat seriously. Self said the team needed to determine if the suspect was a lone wolf, a factor that dictated their heightened vigilance.

The congressman stated that while he has received threats in the past, this was the first time one resulted in an arrest. He emphasized the seriousness of the incident, acknowledging it could have been a major event based on the information provided by investigators. Despite the looming threat, Self attended the fundraiser as planned. He reported judging 19 different chilies and three pots of beans without incident.

Self has continued his campaign activities, including polling places, stating that the plot will not deter him from informing the American public about his political views. The arrest occurs against a backdrop of Self’s prominent stance against Sharia law, a position he reinforced in September with a nonbinding resolution. His district also includes McKinney, where a unanimous city council vote in August to approve a mosque expansion plan sparked significant debate and a subsequent effort to recall several council members.

Evan Hunt, Self’s opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot via social media. The FBI Dallas office has been contacted for further information but has not yet responded. The teen’s identity has not been made public as the investigation continues.