Buda, Texas, February 4, 2026
An incident during a student-led protest against ICE in Buda, Texas, led to a physical altercation between a female minor and an adult male. The confrontation escalated and resulted in the arrest of 45-year-old Chad Michael Watts, who faces charges of assault. The community is divided over the protests, and local police are investigating the incident thoroughly. Authorities, including the Texas Governor, emphasize the importance of maintaining order during such demonstrations. The protests are part of a larger movement across Central Texas raising awareness about immigration enforcement issues.
Buda, Texas – Police Investigate Altercation During Anti-ICE Student Walkout
Buda, Texas – An altercation occurred during a student-led protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Buda, Texas, on Monday, February 2, 2026. The incident involved a physical confrontation between a female minor and an adult male, prompting an investigation by the Buda Police Department.
Details of the Incident
During the protest, which was part of a series of student walkouts across Central Texas, a verbal disagreement between the minor and the adult escalated into a physical altercation. The confrontation was captured in a video that has since circulated on social media, showing the adult male and the student on the ground before other students intervened. The adult male then returned to his vehicle, and the situation de-escalated. The student received medical attention at the scene but declined hospitalization.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the incident, Buda police arrested 45-year-old Chad Michael Watts from Kyle, Texas, charging him with two counts of assault causing bodily injury. Watts was booked into the Hays County Jail, with bond details pending. The Buda Police Department is continuing to gather witness statements and video evidence to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the altercation.
Context of the Student Walkouts
The protest in Buda was part of a larger movement where students across Central Texas walked out of classes to demonstrate against ICE’s actions. Similar protests took place in Bastrop, Pflugerville, and Austin, with students from various schools participating. These demonstrations were largely peaceful and aimed to raise awareness about concerns related to federal immigration enforcement.
Responses from Authorities
Texas Governor Greg Abbott commented on the incident, stating that students involved in such behavior should face consequences, including potential disciplinary actions for schools that allow such conduct. He emphasized the importance of maintaining order during protests and the need for schools to uphold their educational responsibilities. Additionally, the Texas Education Agency has issued guidance warning of potential state oversight for districts that encourage or fail to prevent student protests deemed inappropriate. This could include actions such as replacing elected school boards with appointed boards of managers.
Community Reactions
The altercation has sparked discussions within the community regarding the balance between students’ rights to protest and the need for maintaining safety and order during such demonstrations. Local authorities are urging the public to allow the ongoing investigation to proceed without interference, emphasizing the importance of a thorough and impartial review of the events.
Background on Recent Protests
Similar protests have occurred in other parts of Texas, including Austin, where students have walked out of classes to protest ICE’s actions. These demonstrations have been part of a broader national movement expressing concerns over federal immigration enforcement practices. The recent altercation in Buda highlights the challenges that can arise during such protests and underscores the need for clear communication and effective management to ensure the safety of all participants.
Conclusion
The Buda Police Department continues to investigate the altercation that occurred during the student protest. Authorities are committed to ensuring a fair and thorough examination of the incident and are working to address the broader issues raised by the protests. The community is encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to participate in discussions that promote understanding and constructive dialogue on these important issues.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Buda, Texas |
| Date of Incident | February 2, 2026 |
| Involved Parties | Chad Michael Watts (45-year-old male from Kyle, Texas) and a female minor |
| Charges | Two counts of assault causing bodily injury against Chad Michael Watts |
| Protest Context | Part of a series of student walkouts across Central Texas protesting ICE’s actions |
| Community Response | Discussions on balancing students’ rights to protest with maintaining safety and order |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by the Buda Police Department, gathering witness statements and video evidence |
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