The Buda Police Department said 45-year-old Chad Michael Watts of Kyle was charged with two counts of assault causing bodily injury over the incident.
BUDA, Texas — A man has been arrested in connection with an altercation that took place during a student-led protest on Monday in Buda.
The Buda Police Department said 45-year-old Chad Michael Watts of Kyle was charged with two counts of assault causing bodily injury over the incident, which occurred during a student walkout. Police said Watts and a girl got into an argument on the sidewalk near the corner of RM 967 and FM 1626 during the demonstration.
Investigators said the dispute escalated into a fight involving several people. A video circulating on social media appears to show Watts returning to his pickup truck after the altercation.
Police said on Tuesday, it was determined Watts was “the primary aggressor in the physical altercation.” The investigation is ongoing to determine if additional charges will be filed, they said.
In a statement Tuesday, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra condemned the violence, saying adults have a responsibility to show restraint, especially in the presence of children.
“Violence or intimidation directed at a minor — particularly during a lawful, peaceful demonstration — has no place in a constitutional republic that depends on the rule of law rather than force,” Becerra said in a statement. “I will not be silent when children exercising their constitutional rights are placed at risk. Our duty as a community is to protect the vulnerable and uphold the freedoms of speech and peaceful assembly that belong to all residents, regardless of viewpoint.”
Becerra added that he is in communication with law enforcement and the district attorney’s office regarding the incident.
In a statement, Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky called the incident “an emotionally charged and sensitive issue involving minors that has deeply affected and rightfully concerned our community.”
Anyone with any additional evidence or information is asked to contact police at 512-393-7896 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-324-8477.