Overview
- Buda police arrested Chad Michael Watts, 45, on two counts of assault causing bodily injury after determining he was the primary aggressor in the recorded fight.
- The confrontation unfolded near Johnson High during an anti-ICE walkout of about 200 students at FM 1626 and RM 967; both Watts and the teen reported minor injuries and declined EMS.
- Investigators say Watts left before officers arrived, was later interviewed, and was taken into custody the next day; jail records show he was released Wednesday on surety bonds.
- The Hays County District Attorney’s Office is involved and the investigation continues, with police seeking original videos and reviewing whether additional charges, including for juveniles, are warranted.
- Hays CISD tightened rules for future protests by requiring parent sign-outs and marking absences, as Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Education Agency issued guidance pressuring schools over walkouts.