In a deeply unsettling case that highlights both the power of preventative law enforcement and the dangers posed by radicalized individuals, Cameron Darrick Peterson, a 20-year-old resident of New Braunfels, Texas, has formally entered a guilty plea to charges associated with an attempted mass shooting plot. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Peterson’s arrest is the result of months of intensive investigation by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and other agencies, during which authorities uncovered plans, social media communications, and a series of disturbing actions aimed at securing weaponry and reconnaissance for future violent acts.
The investigation began in November 2022, when Peterson first appeared on the radar of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) after his online presence displayed patterns of alarming behavior. The JTTF, which monitors threats of terrorism and violence at federal and local levels, flagged Peterson after detecting suspicious social media activity. According to FBI reports, Peterson’s social media profiles featured discussions about violent attacks, and agents soon found concerning discussions about firearms, mass shootings, and targeted locations.
In January 2024, Peterson attempted to purchase a 12-gauge shotgun from a licensed firearms dealer. Due to federal laws restricting firearm purchases based on age and the type of firearm, Peterson’s application was rejected. However, investigators noted that he appeared undeterred by this failure. By May 2024, Peterson attempted a second purchase, this time for an assault-style shotgun. His application was again denied, a turn of events that reportedly frustrated Peterson, leading him to express his anger through further disturbing social media posts.
The New Braunfels community was largely unaware of Peterson’s alleged activities until his arrest in June 2024. During this time, federal agents intercepted him after he reportedly made additional attempts to obtain a gun through alternate means. His arrest marked the conclusion of months of investigation and careful monitoring by both federal and local agencies, including the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, the San Antonio Fire Department, and the New Braunfels Police Department. These agencies worked collaboratively to track Peterson’s actions, gather evidence, and ensure the safety of the public.
Upon his arrest, authorities obtained a warrant to search Peterson’s residence, where they uncovered a trove of evidence solidifying the intent to carry out mass violence. Inside Peterson’s home, agents found journals, maps, and crude blueprints that included references to gas stations and grocery stores within his vicinity. Surveillance footage obtained from various locations also depicted Peterson conducting what authorities believe to be reconnaissance missions at several local sites. This activity included noting entrances, exits, and other tactical information that would have aided in carrying out his violent plans.
One of the most alarming discoveries in Peterson’s home involved materials that could be used to assemble improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Although Peterson had not yet succeeded in creating a functioning device, experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) assessed the materials as capable of being fashioned into destructive devices, raising the stakes of the investigation considerably. The discovery of these items is seen as indicative of Peterson’s escalating commitment to carrying out a mass casualty event.
The FBI released statements confirming that Peterson’s online activity and in-person actions suggested a calculated and committed approach to carrying out violence. According to officials familiar with the case, Peterson’s social media presence featured discussions about targeting a gas station—an event he allegedly fantasized about executing to maximize chaos and destruction. Another alarming component of his plan reportedly involved attacking a grocery store, as evidenced by surveillance footage and in-store camera images that placed Peterson at the location several times within the months leading up to his arrest.
While it remains unclear what Peterson’s ultimate motives were, documents related to the investigation point to a combination of mental health struggles and possible radicalization. Sources close to the case suggest that Peterson was likely influenced by violent online content and conspiracy theories. As part of his plea agreement, Peterson acknowledged his attempts to purchase firearms with the intent to commit mass violence, though he declined to elaborate on the specifics of his ideology or influences. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000, with his sentencing hearing scheduled for February 2025.
The legal framework under which Peterson is being charged aims to balance the gravity of his intentions with the need for rehabilitation. The charges—primarily for attempting to unlawfully obtain firearms with malicious intent—fall under federal jurisdiction due to the involvement of firearms and potential explosives, both of which are regulated under federal statutes. Additionally, the charge of attempted mass violence is compounded by Peterson’s overt steps to secure the weapons and conduct reconnaissance on potential sites.
The New Braunfels community, including Peterson’s former high school and local organizations, expressed shock and grief over the events. Various community leaders emphasized the importance of vigilance and preventive efforts in such cases. “It’s a devastating day for all of us here,” remarked a New Braunfels official. “We often think of our community as safe, and incidents like this remind us that we must remain proactive and aware.” The local government and law enforcement agencies have pledged to continue working together to enhance early intervention and awareness programs, including better monitoring of online threats.
Mental health professionals familiar with the case indicated that such incidents often signal broader issues with mental health and radicalization, particularly among young people exposed to extremist ideologies online. While details of Peterson’s psychological evaluation have not been publicly disclosed, there is speculation that he may have struggled with undiagnosed mental health issues that, coupled with his reported fascination with violence, may have contributed to his dangerous behavior. Local mental health advocates have called for increased resources to support young individuals exhibiting signs of distress and violent ideation, suggesting that early intervention could prevent similar incidents.
The U.S. Department of Justice lauded the efforts of the FBI, ATF, and local law enforcement agencies involved in apprehending Peterson before his plans could be executed. In a formal statement, the DOJ emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation across federal, state, and local law enforcement to identify and prevent mass violence. “This case is a testament to the power of coordinated law enforcement and the preventive measures we can take when agencies work together effectively,” a DOJ spokesperson stated. The DOJ reaffirmed its commitment to preventing mass violence and assured the public of the ongoing efforts to address both mental health and radicalization issues within American communities.
Peterson remains in custody pending his sentencing hearing, and authorities have continued to reach out to anyone who may have information regarding his activities. Law enforcement has urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or potentially harmful behavior, underscoring the importance of community involvement in preventing future incidents of this nature.
As the February 2025 sentencing date approaches, families in New Braunfels and surrounding areas continue to grapple with the troubling realization that one of their own had harbored such violent intentions. Many residents are thankful that the intervention took place before any harm could be done, and community leaders have called for a renewed focus on youth mental health support, gun safety laws, and measures to counter violent extremism online.
