Buda, Texas, February 8, 2026
A 45-year-old man, Chad Michael Watts, has been arrested after getting into a physical confrontation with students during a peaceful anti-ICE protest in Buda, Texas. The incident occurred when Watts engaged in a verbal dispute with students from Johnson High School, escalating to violence after a female student kicked his vehicle. Watts now faces charges of assault. The Buda Police Department is investigating and seeking witnesses to come forward.
Buda, Texas: Adult Arrested After Altercation with Students at Anti-ICE Protest
Buda, Texas – A 45-year-old man, Chad Michael Watts, was arrested on February 3, 2026, following a physical confrontation with students during an anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protest in Buda. Watts faces two counts of assault causing bodily injury, classified as Class A misdemeanors. The incident occurred on February 2, 2026, near the intersection of FM 1626 and RR 967, where students from Johnson High School had gathered to protest ICE operations. The altercation began when Watts, driving south on FM 1626, stopped at a red light and engaged in a verbal dispute with a group of students. According to the Buda Police Department’s affidavit, the situation escalated when a female student kicked the passenger door of Watts’ vehicle. Watts exited his vehicle, approached the student, and a physical altercation ensued, during which Watts allegedly struck the student in the throat and forced her to the ground. Other students intervened, leading to a chaotic scene. Watts eventually returned to his vehicle and left the area. The Buda Police Department is continuing its investigation and has urged witnesses to come forward with any additional information or unedited video footage to assist in the case.
Background of the Incident
The protest was organized by students from Johnson High School to express opposition to recent ICE enforcement actions. The gathering was peaceful until the confrontation with Watts. The Buda Police Department responded promptly to the scene after receiving reports of a physical disturbance involving an adult and juveniles. Upon arrival, officers identified Watts as the driver involved in the altercation. Both Watts and the student involved reported minor injuries but declined medical evaluation at the scene. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather all available evidence to ensure a thorough understanding of the events that transpired.
Community Response
Local officials have expressed concern over the incident. Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra emphasized the importance of adults exercising restraint, especially in the presence of minors, and stated that violence or intimidation directed at a minor has no place in a constitutional republic. Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky acknowledged the emotional impact of the situation on the community and urged residents to allow the Buda Police Department to complete their investigation. The Hays Consolidated Independent School District, which includes Johnson High School, did not organize or condone the student walkout but is cooperating with authorities to gather witness statements and video evidence from students present at the scene.
Legal Proceedings
Chad Michael Watts was arrested on February 3, 2026, and charged with two counts of assault causing bodily injury. He was booked into the Hays County Jail and released on a $5,000 bond on February 4, 2026. The Buda Police Department continues to investigate the incident and is seeking additional information from witnesses to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events.
Related Incidents
This incident in Buda is part of a broader pattern of confrontations during anti-ICE protests across the United States. Similar events have occurred in other states, leading to arrests and legal actions. These incidents highlight the tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the challenges in balancing public demonstrations with law enforcement responsibilities.
Conclusion
The altercation in Buda underscores the complexities and potential for conflict inherent in public demonstrations, particularly those involving sensitive issues such as immigration enforcement. As investigations continue, it is crucial for all parties to cooperate fully to ensure accountability and maintain public trust in the justice system. The community remains hopeful that a thorough and fair investigation will provide clarity and address the concerns raised by this incident.
FAQ
What led to the altercation between Chad Michael Watts and the students?
The altercation began when Watts, driving south on FM 1626, stopped at a red light and engaged in a verbal dispute with a group of students. According to the Buda Police Department’s affidavit, the situation escalated when a female student kicked the passenger door of Watts’ vehicle. Watts exited his vehicle, approached the student, and a physical altercation ensued, during which Watts allegedly struck the student in the throat and forced her to the ground. Other students intervened, leading to a chaotic scene. Watts eventually returned to his vehicle and left the area.
What charges is Chad Michael Watts facing?
Chad Michael Watts faces two counts of assault causing bodily injury, classified as Class A misdemeanors.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Buda Police Department is continuing its investigation and has urged witnesses to come forward with any additional information or unedited video footage to assist in the case.
How has the community responded to the incident?
Local officials have expressed concern over the incident. Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra emphasized the importance of adults exercising restraint, especially in the presence of minors, and stated that violence or intimidation directed at a minor has no place in a constitutional republic. Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky acknowledged the emotional impact of the situation on the community and urged residents to allow the Buda Police Department to complete their investigation.
Has this type of incident occurred elsewhere?
This incident in Buda is part of a broader pattern of confrontations during anti-ICE protests across the United States. Similar events have occurred in other states, leading to arrests and legal actions. These incidents highlight the tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the challenges in balancing public demonstrations with law enforcement responsibilities.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Buda, Texas |
| Date of Incident | February 2, 2026 |
| Individuals Involved | Chad Michael Watts (45-year-old man), Students from Johnson High School |
| Charges | Two counts of assault causing bodily injury (Class A misdemeanors) |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; Buda Police Department seeking additional information from witnesses |
| Community Response | Local officials expressing concern; urging cooperation with the investigation |
| Related Incidents | Similar confrontations during anti-ICE protests in other states |
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