Teen Accused of Plotting to Kill North Texas Congressman

A federal investigation is underway following the arrest of a minor in connection with a purported plan to harm a government official. A 17-year-old from McKinney has been taken into custody by the FBI on allegations that he was plotting to assassinate North Texas Representative Keith Self, according to confirmation from Self's campaign officials.

Details regarding the arrest surfaced on October 6, one day after the teenager was apprehended on October 5. Campaign officials stated they learned of the situation through U.S. Capitol Police. The lawmaker is currently engaged in a campaign for a third term representing Texas' third congressional district.

Investigators told the campaign they believed the suspect had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Furthermore, the teen was allegedly planning an attack on behalf of ISIS. The intended target was reportedly a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans scheduled for October 17, an event that was expected to feature former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests.

Self, a Republican seeking reelection, stated that his team began increasing their security awareness as early as October 6. The congressman confirmed that he adjusted his situation in response to the intelligence received. "So at that point we upped our profile and we're a little more aware," Self said.

In discussing his reaction to the news, Self pointed to his background to explain his response. "Having deployed into combat zones several times, I'm happy it happened to me because people that have never dealt with this before tend to freak out," he stated. Self added that while he understood the severity, he was concerned with whether the individual acted alone.

Despite the alleged threat, the congressman said he proceeded with the scheduled event without incident. He noted that he has received threats in the past, but nothing had previously resulted in an arrest. "We knew there were threats, but nothing has risen to the level of an arrest," Self said. "That's what makes this different."

Self has continued his campaign activities, including meeting voters at polling locations. He stated that he would not be deterred by the incident from discussing political ideology with the public. His opponent in the upcoming midterm election, Evan Hunt, also condemned the alleged plot in a social media post.

This incident occurs as Self has taken a stance against Sharia law. In September, he introduced a resolution asserting the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land and opposing Sharia implementation. The representative's district includes McKinney, where plans for a new mosque have recently sparked debate and an effort to recall several council members following a unanimous city council approval of a site plan in August.

The identity of the teenager has not been publicly released while the investigation continues. The FBI Dallas office has not yet provided additional comment regarding the matter.