Texas Capitol Evacuated Amid Active Shooter Threat, Protest Disruptions

The Texas State Capitol was evacuated and its grounds closed due to reports of an active shooter threat, prompting a swift security response involving Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers and armed officers. While most lawmakers, staff, and visitors were cleared from the premises, Texas Democrats, including Representative Nicole Collier, remained confined inside the House Chamber under armed guard, refusing to leave without a monitored escort. The evacuation occurred shortly before a planned protest supporting Collier, who has been at the center of a political standoff for breaking quorum to block legislative votes. Protesters were moved off the Capitol grounds as authorities investigated the threat, which reportedly originated from an anonymous call referring to a concerning social media post. DPS has not confirmed the presence of an active shooter, and the situation remains fluid as investigations continue. The incident highlights escalating tensions at the Capitol amid ongoing political conflicts and security concerns.