Indian-Origin Student Arrested in Texas on Arson and Terror Threat Charges

A 22-year-old Indian-origin university student has been arrested in the United States on serious criminal charges, including arson and making terroristic threats against family members, according to official police and court records.

The accused, Manojh Sai Lella, a senior at the University of Texas at Dallas, was taken into custody by the Frisco Police Department on Monday following a call from his family reporting a mental health crisis and alleged threats inside their home.

Alleged Arson Attempt and Police Response

Authorities said officers were dispatched to Lella’s residence after family members expressed concern over his behaviour and safety. During the investigation, police determined that Lella had allegedly attempted to set fire to the house several days earlier, prompting the more serious arson charge.

Based on the findings, police arrested Lella and booked him into custody.

Charges Filed

According to court documents, Lella has been charged with:

• Arson with intent to damage a habitation or place of worship, classified as a first-degree felony under Texas law

• Terroristic threat against a family or household member, a Class A misdemeanour

Police officials clarified that while the arson charge references a place of worship under statutory language, there is no evidence to suggest that any religious site was targeted or threatened in this case.

Bond and Legal Status

Court records show that bond was set at USD 100,000 for the arson charge and USD 3,500 for the terroristic threat charge. Lella remains subject to the judicial process, and no trial date has been announced so far.

Mental Health Aspect Under Review

Authorities acknowledged that the incident involved a reported mental health episode, though no further details have been released. It remains unclear whether mental health evaluations or treatment will be part of the legal proceedings.

University officials have not publicly commented on the arrest, and there is no indication at this stage of any threat to the campus or broader public safety.

The case remains under investigation, and further information is expected as court proceedings move forward.