Two Charged in 2023 New Caney Buddhist Temple Firebombing

Two individuals, Austin Willard Tanton and Kayla Lynn Thompson, have been arrested and federally charged for the November 2023 firebombing of the Huyen Trang Buddhist Meditation Center in New Caney, Texas. Tanton allegedly threw a Molotov cocktail into the temple, causing a fire that damaged a rug and flooring, while monks inside quickly extinguished the flames. Surveillance footage showed Thompson driving a vehicle that stopped near the temple before Tanton broke a window screen and ignited the incendiary device. Both face charges including conspiracy to commit malicious use of explosive materials and using explosive materials in the commission of a felony, with Tanton also charged with possession of an unregistered destructive device. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in federal prison, with additional penalties possible for the weapons charge. Authorities emphasized the attack as a threat to the safety of the community and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.