A 19-year-old man from San Antonio has been taken into custody following a serious threat directed at the University of Texas-San Antonio (UTSA). Xaelyn Dunbar allegedly posted on Facebook with the intent to harm those attending a prayer vigil for Charlie Kirk, who was recently assassinated. According to the arrest affidavit, Dunbar’s post expressed rage and disdain for the vigil, stating, “This is a disgrace and I can tell you right now I’m gonna make sure this won’t be a good nor comforting vigil y’all watch and see.” His comments escalated, warning that those present should not attempt to stop his Ford 250 diesel truck, saying, “You’ll see tmr I just wouldn’t advise trying to stop a Ford 250 Diesel truck. Show y’all how much Charlie really means.”
This kind of rhetoric raised immediate alarms, prompting authorities to conduct a welfare check at Dunbar’s residence. The situation culminated in his arrest. During questioning, Dunbar reportedly admitted to making those posts, attempting to downplay the seriousness of his actions. He referred to his comments as him merely “being dumb” and “clowning around.” When pressed about whether the consequences were worth the trouble he now faces, he appeared unrepentant, saying, “If that’s what it takes, I did what I did and I can take the consequences.”
Dunbar faces severe charges related to making a terroristic threat, a serious offense that could lead to penalties ranging from six months in county jail to as much as ten years in prison, contingent on the classification. His bond has been set at $40,000, and he is currently in the Bexar County Sheriff’s Department Adult Detention Center.
The context surrounding this event adds to the tension. Approximately 2,000 people gathered for the vigil honoring Kirk, which took place against a backdrop of growing concerns about threats to free speech and safe assembly, especially relating to conservative events. The aftermath of Kirk’s assassination has seen many prominent conservatives call for President Donald Trump to impose a state of emergency in response to what they perceive as escalating political violence from the left.
This incident underlines the alarming trend of threatening behavior in the current political climate. The growing division and hostility could lead to more dangerous situations if not addressed seriously. The swift action by law enforcement highlights the importance of monitoring online threats and serves as a crucial reminder of how quickly words can escalate into real-life consequences. The repercussions Dunbar now faces serve as a stark warning about the gravity of making threats, even in jest.
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