Crime
20-year-old Cameron Peterson Pleads Guilty to Attempted Mass Shooting
A 20-year-old New Braunfels man, Cameron Darrick Peterson, has pleaded guilty to attempting to acquire firearms with the intent to commit a mass shooting.
According to court documents, Peterson began planning the attacks in November 2022.
He attempted to purchase a 12-gauge shotgun in January 2024 and an assault-style shotgun in May 2024, but was denied both times due to his age and the type of firearms.
Following his arrest in June 2024, federal agents discovered evidence of Peterson’s plans, including social media posts where he discussed attacking a gas station and surveillance footage of a grocery store.
Additionally, authorities found materials in his home that could be used to create improvised explosive devices.
Peterson faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
His sentencing is scheduled for February 2025.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, the San Antonio Fire Department, the New Braunfels Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Christian County, Mo. — Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.