By Trend News Line 2024-06-12 12:06:59.
An Arizona man has been apprehended for plotting a mass shooting in Atlanta with the intention of igniting a race war in the city. Mark Adams Prieto, the accused individual, allegedly sold rifles to individuals in order to supply weapons for the initiation of a race war preceding the 2024 Presidential Election, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
**Investigation and Arrest**
Prieto was indicted by a federal grand jury on Tuesday following an extensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and his subsequent arrest in mid-May. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Phoenix, Arizona initiated the investigation into Prieto in October 2023, after receiving information from a reliable source regarding his intentions to incite a race war prior to the 2024 United States Presidential Election.
**Alarming Comments**
The affidavit submitted in court by FBI agents detailed how Prieto’s comments escalated over time, with him advocating for a mass shooting targeting African Americans, Jews, or Muslims. Prieto believed that martial law would be implemented after the 2024 election and expressed a desire to carry out a mass shooting prior to its enforcement. He attempted to recruit individuals to assist him in orchestrating the attack.
**Gun Show Vendor**
Prieto worked as a gun show vendor in Prescott, Arizona, where he sold numerous firearms from his personal collection. He preferred to conduct trades “off book” through cash or trade to avoid potential issues with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). The FBI’s surveillance revealed that Prieto had plans to commit violent crimes against African Americans in Atlanta, specifically targeting a rap concert in the city.
**Racially Motivated Attack**
Prieto explicitly stated his motives for the attack, citing his belief that the influx of individuals from other cities had changed the demographics of Georgia. He planned to incite fear and violence by leaving Confederate flags at the scene of the attack, indicating a desire to fight back against perceived threats. His racially charged rhetoric and intentions to cause harm were evident in his conversations with undercover agents.
**Arrest and Charges**
In mid-May, Prieto was stopped by law enforcement while travelling to Florida and was found to be in possession of seven firearms. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered additional firearms, including an unregistered short-barreled rifle. Prieto now faces charges for firearms trafficking, transfer of a firearm for use in a hate crime, and possession of an unregistered firearm, each carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
**Conclusion**
The trial date for Prieto has yet to be scheduled, as the investigation and legal proceedings continue. The case highlights the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts to prevent acts of domestic terrorism and violence. The swift action taken by authorities in this instance averted a potential tragedy and underscores the ongoing threat posed by individuals seeking to spread hatred and incite violence in communities..
1. Arizona man facing federal charges for planning mass shooting in Atlanta
2. Arizona man wanted to start ‘race war’ in Atlanta.