FBI Disrupts New Year’s Eve Terror Plot
Federal authorities say they stopped a credible terrorist threat just days before New Year’s Eve. The FBI arrested four people accused of planning coordinated bombings across Los Angeles and Orange County. Officials say the attacks could have killed civilians and first responders.
Alleged Plot Targeted Multiple Locations
According to the FBI, the suspects planned to detonate improvised explosive devices at five locations. Investigators say the devices were designed as pipe bombs and hidden in backpacks. The bombs were allegedly set to explode simultaneously at midnight on New Year’s Eve.
Suspects Arrested in the California Desert
Agents arrested the four suspects in Lucerne Valley. Authorities say the group was actively assembling bomb components at the time. Investigators recovered PVC pipes, fuses, and explosive precursors. FBI agents intervened before the suspects completed the devices.
Who Are the Accused?
Federal prosecutors identified the suspects as Audrey Carroll, 30; Zachary Aaron Page, 32; Dante Gaffield, 24; and Tina Lai, 41. Authorities charged all four with conspiracy and possession of an unregistered destructive device. Additional charges may follow.
Extremist Group Tied to Ideology and Targets
The FBI says the suspects identified with a radical offshoot of the Turtle Island Liberation Front. Officials describe the group as pro-Palestinian, anti-government, and hostile toward law enforcement. Investigators say the group also planned to target ICE agents and vehicles.
Evidence Reveals Detailed Planning
Court documents describe a handwritten plan titled Operation Midnight Sun. Prosecutors say it outlined bomb construction, team roles, and methods to avoid detection. Investigators also found extremist posters, including messages calling for violence against ICE and the United States.
Officials Call Plot ‘Massive and Horrific’
Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the joint FBI and DOJ operation. She said the arrests prevented a deadly attack. Federal officials stressed that the investigation remains active and warned that extremist threats continue to evolve.
