Marine veteran who threatened to shoot up Texas high school and zoo arrested after car chase: Police

A Marine Corps veteran, Joshua Finney, was taken into custody after allegedly making threats to open fire on Morton Ranch High School in Katy, Texas, and the Houston Zoo. The 38-year-old reportedly sent menacing Facebook messages to a relative, along with photos of himself posing with firearms. Authorities were alerted to the situation and swiftly intervened.

Law enforcement officers engaged in a high-speed chase with Finney, who displayed reckless driving behavior while attempting to evade capture. The pursuit spanned eight miles, with Finney reaching speeds of up to 110 miles per hour. He dangerously maneuvered his vehicle, weaving through lanes and even driving against oncoming traffic, endangering both patrol vehicles and innocent bystanders.

Upon apprehending Finney, police discovered a loaded gun in his possession, along with 39 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, law enforcement obtained video evidence of Finney driving past Morton Ranch High School, further supporting the seriousness of his threats.

During his initial court appearance, Finney was unable to attend as he was being held in a mental health unit. Due to his extensive and violent criminal background, including previous offenses, such as harassment and evading police, Finney faces charges related to illegal possession of a firearm.

The investigation into Finney’s motives and intentions remains ongoing as authorities work to ensure the safety of the community. In light of the severity of the situation, Finney’s bond was increased to $10 million on Thursday, reflecting the gravity of the alleged offenses.

As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in responding to threats of violence. The prompt intervention by law enforcement prevented a potentially catastrophic situation, underscoring the critical role they play in safeguarding public safety.