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📍 Alvarado, Texas — July 8, 2025
Federal authorities have charged ten individuals with attempted murder of federal officers and firearms offenses following a coordinated attack on the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas. The incident, which occurred on July 4, left an Alvarado police officer wounded and prompted a multi-agency investigation.
🔍 Details of the Attack According to the criminal complaint, the suspects—dressed in black military-style clothing—launched fireworks at the facility to lure officers outside.
- One individual allegedly shot a police officer in the neck from nearby woods
- Another fired 20–30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers
- AR-style rifles, body armor, and two-way radios were recovered at the scene
- Graffiti, anti-government flyers, and a flag reading “Resist Fascism – Fight Oligarchy” were also found
📦 Charges Filed Each defendant faces:
- Three counts of attempted murder of federal officers
- Three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence
The ten charged are:
- Cameron Arnold
- Savanna Batten
- Nathan Baumann
- Zachary Evetts
- Joy Gibson
- Bradford Morris
- Maricela Rueda
- Seth Sikes
- Elizabeth Soto
- Ines Soto
🗣️ Official Statements Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson condemned the incident as a “planned ambush”, stating:
“This increasing trend of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated.”
FBI Dallas Special Agent R. Joseph Rothrock added:
“We are committed to thoroughly investigating this incident and holding those responsible accountable.”
ICE Dallas Field Office Director Josh Johnson described the attack as “vigilante lawlessness”, emphasizing that such actions will not deter officers from fulfilling their duties.
⚖️ Legal Process All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, they face 10 years to life in federal prison.
The investigation was led by the FBI, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, ATF, Texas DPS, Alvarado Police, and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
For official updates, see the U.S. Attorney’s Office press release and coverage from ABC News and MSN.
