Fort Worth, January 14, 2026

A 17-year-old boy from Fort Worth has been arrested after posting a threatening video on social media and is linked to arson incidents involving five vehicles. Identified as Evan Banda, he faces charges of terrorism, arson, and possession of child pornography. The investigation is ongoing as authorities probe his potential connections to extremist groups. Police are urging the public to report any suspicious activities as they continue to monitor the situation.

Fort Worth Teen Arrested for Social Media Threats and Arson

Overview

Fort Worth, Texas – A 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with a series of social media threats and arson incidents in Fort Worth. The suspect, identified as Evan Banda, faces multiple charges, including terrorism, arson, and possession of child pornography. As of January 13, 2026, Banda remains in custody at the Tarrant County Lon Evans Corrections Center, with bail set at $1.9 million.

Details of the Arrest

On January 8, 2026, Fort Worth police apprehended Banda after linking him to a threatening video posted on social media on January 6. The video depicted an individual wearing a hockey mask and holding a gun, delivering threats of mass violence. Authorities believe the video originated from an extremist hate group outside the United States, aiming to incite fear within the community. A similar message was received by a neighboring police department on the same day. The video was initially posted by FortWorth Texas TV on Instagram, claiming it was sent by an anonymous source. The masked individual in the video stated intentions to cause harm, including shooting, bombing, and cutting, expressing a desire to be as cruel as possible. The individual claimed affiliation with a group referred to as ENDTEX. Fort Worth police dismissed the video as a hoax designed to incite fear, stating it was believed to have originated outside the U.S. with the sole purpose of causing terror. The FBI acknowledged the online threats directed at various schools in the North Texas area and emphasized the seriousness with which such threats are taken. The agency collaborates with local and federal law enforcement partners to gather and share information on the threat and take appropriate action. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement immediately. The Fort Worth Police Department, in collaboration with local, state, and national partners, assessed the credibility of the threat and implemented an immediate safety plan within the department to ensure public safety. The investigation into the source and intent of the video continues.

Connection to Arson Incidents

Investigators also linked Banda to a series of arson incidents in south Fort Worth. Between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, five vehicles were set ablaze in the area. Authorities believe Banda recorded footage of North Texas schools and sent it overseas to the extremist group, which posted the threatening videos. The Fort Worth Police Department’s Arson Unit determined that the threats were connected to the arson-related videos recorded on the city’s south side.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into Banda’s activities is ongoing. Police have not disclosed which extremist organization he is associated with. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage the public to report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement.

Background Context

In recent years, Fort Worth has experienced several incidents involving threats and arson. In July 2025, a shooting occurred at the Prairieland Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Alvarado, Texas, involving approximately 12 individuals who allegedly used fireworks and vandalism to draw out officers and ambush them with rifles. One Alvarado police officer was shot in the neck and released from the hospital a short time later. In November 2024, a 17-year-old student carried out a school attack at the San Andrés Preparatory School in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, injuring two classmates with a hammer before being subdued and arrested. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing threats and violence within the community.

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