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Man Arrested After Altercation with Students at Buda Protest
Chad Watts, 45, charged with assault causing bodily injury after fight broke out during student walkout against ICE
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Police in Buda, Texas have arrested 45-year-old Chad Watts after an altercation with a group of students during a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 2, 2026. According to an affidavit, the incident began when Watts and a group of students began arguing at a red light, with a female student kicking the side of Watts' vehicle. Watts then got out of his car and a physical fight ensued, with Watts allegedly striking the female student in the throat and forcing her into a drainage ditch. Another female student who tried to intervene was also pushed to the ground by Watts before other students joined the melee, striking Watts. Watts was eventually arrested and charged with assault causing bodily injury.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the tensions that can arise when political protests and demonstrations involve confrontations between adults and minors. The case raises questions about the appropriate response by authorities when student activists engage in civil disobedience and how to de-escalate potentially volatile situations without resorting to violence.
The details
According to the police affidavit, the incident began when Watts, who was driving south on FM 1626, stopped at a red light at the intersection of RM 967. Watts and a group of students from Moe and Gene Johnson High School began arguing, and a female student kicked the side of Watts' vehicle, though it was not damaged. Watts then got out of his car and approached the female student, referred to as 'Victim 1' in the affidavit. As Watts got closer, the student swatted at his arm, and a physical altercation ensued, with Watts allegedly striking the student in the throat and forcing her into a nearby drainage ditch. Another female student, 'Victim 2', tried to intervene but was pushed to the ground by Watts. More students then joined the fight, striking Watts, before he retreated to his vehicle as students appeared to throw liquid and objects at him.
- The incident occurred on Monday, February 2, 2026 around 3 p.m.
- Watts was arrested on February 3, 2026 and booked into the Hays County Adult Detention Facility.
The players
Chad Watts
A 45-year-old man who was involved in the altercation with the students during the protest.
Victim 1
A female student who was allegedly struck in the throat and forced into a drainage ditch by Watts.
Victim 2
Another female student who tried to intervene but was pushed to the ground by Watts.
Moe and Gene Johnson High School
The high school that the student protesters attended.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Chad Watts out on bail.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the need for better protocols and training to de-escalate confrontations between adults and minors during political protests, in order to protect the safety of all involved and uphold the right to peaceful assembly.
