FBI Apprehends Alleged Prairieland Gunman Benjamin Hanil Song in Dallas

After an intensive weeklong search, FBI agents have arrested Benjamin Hanil Song, the alleged gunman involved in the July 4th attack on the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas.

Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson announced the arrest, marking the fourteenth in connection with the incident.

According to court documents, Song, a former U.S. Marine Corps reservist, participated in a coordinated assault alongside ten others.

The group, dressed in black military-style clothing, initiated the attack by launching fireworks and vandalizing property to lure correctional officers outside.

Upon responding, an Alvarado police officer was shot in the neck by an assailant positioned in nearby woods.

Another attacker fired 20 to 30 rounds at unarmed correctional officers who had exited the facility.

Ten suspects were apprehended shortly after the attack, but Song evaded capture until his recent arrest in Dallas.

He faces charges including three counts of attempted murder of federal agents and three counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.

Authorities allege that Song purchased four firearms used in the ambush and coordinated the attack using encrypted messaging apps.

“After the immediate apprehension of Song’s coconspirators at the scene, the FBI and our federal prosecutors—together with our other law enforcement partners—worked tirelessly around the clock pursuing Song,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Larson.

“Their tremendous efforts culminated in the arrest of this alleged violent criminal today.”

FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock emphasized the agency's commitment to protecting the community and law enforcement partners targeted in the attack.

“We have said it before, the FBI will not tolerate acts of violence toward law enforcement and will thoroughly investigate anyone that commits these types of offenses,” he stated.

If convicted, Song and his co-defendants face a minimum of ten years and up to life imprisonment.

The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the FBI Dallas, ICE Enforcement and Removal Office, ATF, Texas Department of Public Safety, Alvarado Police Department, and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.

Community members in Alvarado have expressed relief following the arrest, hoping it brings a sense of security back to the area.

“It’s been a tense time for all of us,” said a local resident.

“Knowing he’s off the streets helps us sleep a little better at night.”

The case continues to develop as authorities prepare for upcoming court proceedings.