Man shouting "f--- the n-----s" fires shot at Texas campaign headquarters

BEAUMONT -- Police here were questioning five people after someone shouted "f--- the n-----s," then fired a shot Monday night at the crowded campaign headquarters of Zena Stephens, one of three Democratic candidates for Jefferson County sheriff, reports CBS Beaumont affiliate KFDM-TV.

Stephens, who is black, told the station a witness saw a white person using what appears to have been a BB gun or air rifle. No one was hurt, but a glass door was shattered.

She says organizers were at the headquarters getting campaign material for Tuesday's primary election.

Police told KFDM someone from Stephens' headquarters followed the suspect's vehicle and thought they spotted it. Police said they found two weapons in the vehicle.

The incident is "just an example of ignorance," Stephens said. "Whether we're getting ready for an election or not. It's just an example of ignorance. Anytime you try to hurt somebody ... it's just ignorance."

Jefferson County Republican Party Chairman Dr. Garrett Peel issued a statement saying, "We have no time for this kind of hate in Southeast Texas. Our candidates and their volunteers are public servants and we are thankful to their sacrifice. The most powerful protest is a vote, not a gunshot. We are thankful Zena and her team are safe."