Texas Man Pleads Guilty In Plot To Commit Multiple Mass Shootings

20-year-old Cameron Peterson of New Braunfels was brought to the attention of the FBI with an anonymous tip from someone concerned he was headed toward becoming the next school shooter. Federal prosecutors believe his arrest this summer could have foiled a mass murder attack, something he had told not only his girlfriend about but had also written about in detail in his diary.

This tipster who reported him to authorities learned from Peterson's girlfriend that he had fantasies about committing a mass shooting and that he idolized violence, and may even try to emulate an infamous mass shooting of the past.

While investigating Peterson, the FBI learned he had attempted to purchase a 12-gauge shotgun from a pawnshop on January 4th, 2024 in New Braunfels but was denied because of his age and the type of firearm he was trying to buy.

An FBI agent interviewed him in his home on May 21st, 2024. Peterson admitted to smoking weed every day and was added to the NICS and banned from getting any firearms. Just one week later, Peterson made another attempt at purchasing a weapon but was denied when his name came up in the NICS. He even gave a false address and told them he didn't smoke pot.

Luckily, he left empty-handed again.

FBI agents took Peterson into custody on June 5th after obtaining an arrest warrant and found that despite their efforts to keep him from buying guns, he already had one in his home. They located a .22 caliber saw-off rifle and 6 magazines loaded with 60 rounds. 5 days later, while searching his home more extensively, agents located 11 aerosol containers and the ingredients to make destructive devices, like improvised explosives.

Peterson will be sentenced on February 5th, 2024, facing up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

This story is yet another reminder to say something if you see something. If you come across someone discussing things of this nature, please tell the authorities. Please use your best judgment to help prevent horrific tragedies.

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