The Texas Capitol was abruptly evacuated on Sunday evening after an unidentified individual called 911, claiming to have planted a pipe bomb within the building. The Department of Public Safety issued an emergency alert, notifying the public of the ongoing threat.

Following the alarming call, the Austin Police Department was immediately alerted and arrived on the scene at approximately 4 p.m. While the DPS evacuated the premises at approximately 5 p.m., troopers with K9 dogs searched the area in search of any potential explosives.

Fortunately, after a thorough sweep of the Capitol grounds, Austin police confirmed that the building was safe to return and no explosive devices were found. However, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of the Texas Capitol.

DPS has launched an investigation into the matter, but it remains unclear who is behind the bomb threat. Both DPS and the Austin Police Department have remained tight-lipped and declined to comment on the incident.

The fact that lawmakers were not convening on Sunday evening when the threat was made raises questions about whether the threat was politically motivated or targeted at any specific individuals within the Capitol.

As the investigation continues, it is crucial that authorities take swift action to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Texas Capitol and prevent any potential future threats from materializing.

Source: Texas Tribune