Suspect In Vehicle Arson At Capitol Arrested In Iowa

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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM) - The suspect wanted in connection with the investigation into the vehicle arson at the Texas State Capitol on August 7 was arrested Wednesday evening in Iowa.

Michael Patrick Wagner, a 38-year-old resident of Iowa, was arrested by the Marion Police Department for an unrelated charge in Linn County.

At the same time, DPS officers – two Texas Rangers and a Criminal Investigations Division Special Agent – were traveling to Iowa with an arrest warrant from Texas for a second-degree felony (arson).

"Thanks to great police and investigative work by local, state and federal law enforcement in Texas as well as our partners in Iowa, we are pleased to announce that the suspect in this case has been arrested," said DPS Director Steven McCraw. "Visitors and employees at the state capitol can be assured that DPS works hard to keep them safe, and when a crime does occur, DPS works quickly to identify and locate those responsible."

Wagner is currently being held in the Linn County Jail on an unrelated charge, and extradition proceedings related to the Texas warrant are pending.

DPS investigators followed up on numerous leads related to the vehicle arson and were able to identify Wagner's vehicle through a capitol complex parking ticket. Wagner's vehicle information ultimately led investigators to Linn County.

"I applaud the Department of Public Safety for swiftly and successfully capturing the suspected arsonist believed to have set fire to a vehicle at the Capitol. I look forward to the suspect's extradition to Texas to face justice," said Governor Greg Abbott in a statement.

"I am grateful for the Department's collaborative work with local and federal authorities in this effort and the Department's continued service to ensuring all those working in or visiting the Texas Capitol feel safe and protected."

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