An $80,000 bond has been set for 83-year-old Dennis Erwin Brandl Jr. following his arrest in connection with a shooting at Pasadena Memorial High School, where he allegedly opened fire during a band competition.
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Prosecutors argued for a $500,000 bond, citing the serious nature of the offense and the potential risk to others, as Brandl reportedly appeared to be searching for additional targets before being restrained. They also requested conditions such as GPS monitoring and house arrest. However, the defense sought a lower bond, highlighting Brandl’s age, lack of criminal history, and honorable discharge from the Navy.
The court set the bond at $80,000 and imposed several conditions, including no contact with the victim, Dwight Benjamin, and his family, and a prohibition on possessing firearms, drugs, or alcohol. Brandl is also required to stay at least 200 feet away from Pasadena Memorial High School.
What happened?
The incident happened during a Texas Color Guard Circuit percussion competition, where Brandl allegedly opened fire with a small-caliber handgun, striking a man in the shoulder. The victim was airlifted to a hospital and is currently in stable condition.
Brandl, who is not affiliated with the band contest, was tackled by an off-duty Houston Police Department officer attending the event. Other attendees assisted in disarming him before security personnel and officers took control of the situation. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office has charged Brandl with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
According to Pasadena Police Department, Brandl claimed he was being chased and feared for his and his wife’s safety, leading him to the school. However, authorities have not corroborated these claims, and it remains unclear if Brandl was experiencing a mental breakdown.
Pasadena Independent School District released a statement acknowledging the incident and confirmed that the suspect had no ties to the competition. The district is providing crisis counseling and additional security at campuses.
Brandl remains in custody, with his next court appearance scheduled for February 4.