24-year-old Skyler Philippi from Columbia, Tennessee, allegations include plotting violent attacks against public infrastructure.
“As charged, Skyler Philippi believed he was moments away from launching an attack on a Nashville energy facility to further his violent white supremacist ideology -- but the FBI had already compromised his plot,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This case serves as yet another warning to those seeking to sow violence and chaos in the name of hatred by attacking our country’s critical infrastructure: the Justice Department will find you, we will disrupt your plot, and we will hold you accountable. I am grateful to the public servants of the FBI for their extraordinary work on this case and for the work they do every day to keep our country safe.”
Court documents indicate Philippi began plotting a violent attack in June 2024. Initially, his plans involved a mass shooting at a local YMCA, which sparked concern. But by July, his focus shifted to electric facilities. His reasoning was chilling: he believed that attacking large interstate substations could "shock the system," leading to significant power grid failures. In fact, studies suggest that such attacks can lead to disruptions affecting millions, highlighting the seriousness of his intent.
Philippi's strategy evolved as he researched past assaults on electrical infrastructure. He recognized that firearms alone would not achieve the impact he sought. Instead, he devised a plan to use a drone fitted with explosives.
By September 2024, Philippi was actively preparing for his planned attack. He conducted reconnaissance at an electric substation, meticulously planning every detail. In communication with undercover FBI agents, he expressed interest in acquiring explosives like C-4 and even purchased black powder to create pipe bombs. His discussions hinted at a broader ambition to target critical economic areas in major cities, suggesting more serious ramifications than initially understood. Drawing on Norse mythology, he claimed, "this is where the New Age begins," suggesting he believed his actions would make history. This eerie practice indicates that his motivations went beyond a desire for chaos; they reflected a twisted ideology.
“Driven by a racially motivated extremist ideology, the defendant allegedly planned to attack the power grid with a drone and explosives, leaving thousands of Americans and critical infrastructure like hospitals without power,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI’s swift work led to the detection and disruption of the defendant’s plot before he could cause any damage. We are committed to hold accountable anyone who threatens or plans harm to critical infrastructure or seeks to hurt American communities through domestic violent extremism.”
Law enforcement put an end to Philippi's plot when they arrested him at the site of his planned attack. At the time of his arrest, he was inside a vehicle with a powered drone and an armed explosive device. The quick response from federal agents averted what could have been a disastrous situation.
Philippi now faces serious charges, including attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempted destruction of an energy facility.
“As alleged, the defendant in this case conducted extensive research into explosive devices and potential targets to launch an attack against critical infrastructure,” said Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office.
If convicted, Philippi could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. His case underscores the legal frameworks established to combat domestic terrorism, particularly the seriousness of attempts to harm public infrastructure. A federal district court judge will evaluate his case, considering guidelines in place to address such threats.
“Dangerous threats to our critical infrastructure threaten every member of this community and will not be tolerated” said Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee. “We will always work with our law enforcement partners to identify and stop any and all efforts to wreak this kind of havoc and will not hesitate in prosecuting those involved to the fullest extent of the law.”
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