SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio police have arrested a suspect in connection with a mass shooting threat directed at the Barshop Jewish Community Center, authorities confirmed Thursday. The threat, first reported to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) by the local FBI office, led to an immediate increase in police presence around Jewish facilities throughout the city.
The FBI received information about the threat overnight and notified SAPD, which quickly implemented enhanced security measures. The Barshop Jewish Community Center, located on Northwest Military Highway, suspended all programs and services early Thursday as a precaution. Additional officers were dispatched to the campus and other Jewish institutions in the area.
The suspect was located and taken into custody in another state, according to statements from both the FBI and SAPD. The arrest was based on statements the individual made while being questioned by authorities.ย
Law enforcement officials said the arrest significantly reduced any further danger related to the threat but emphasized that they would continue to monitor the situation and maintain communication with local Jewish organizations.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus thanked the community for its vigilance and cooperation. โWe appreciate the communityโs vigilance and continued cooperation,โ McManus said in a statement.
Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones also addressed the incident, stating, โAntisemitism has no place in San Antonio, and weโll take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of our Jewish neighbors.โ She praised the swift action of SAPD and the ongoing efforts to protect the Jewish community.
Leaders from the Barshop Jewish Community Center and Temple Beth El, another local Jewish institution, expressed gratitude for the rapid response from law enforcement and city officials.
Eric Ryniker, Executive Director of Temple Beth El, noted that robust security protocols are in place due to the unfortunate frequency of such threats. โHonestly, frustration more than anything because of how almost routine it is. Itโs terrible. Itโs tragic. Itโs not OK. And yet, this is just part of what we do. We have these protocols in place because we know things like this are going to happen,โ Ryniker told KSAT.
Both the JCC and Temple Beth El confirmed they would reopen on Friday, emphasizing the importance of community resilience and not allowing threats to disrupt Jewish life in San Antonio.
SAPD and the FBI continue to investigate the incident and have encouraged anyone with additional information to contact authorities.
This article is based on verified information from KSAT, JNS, Texas Public Radio, Spectrum News, and official statements from the San Antonio Police Department and the FBI.