Authorities have identified Skyler Philippi as the suspect behind a foiled drone terror plot in Nashville. Philippi, 24, was seen in court documents wearing a skull mask and displaying homemade bombs. He was accused of planning to blow up a power station using a bomb-laden drone. Federal prosecutors are seeking to have him jailed pending trial, arguing that he poses a danger to the community. Philippi allegedly identified as an “accelerationist,” a term used by White supremacists to hasten the collapse of society.
According to prosecutors, Philippi had planned to target high economic and political areas in major cities to cause maximum damage. He had discussed carrying out a mass shooting and derailing a train with antisemitic motives. Philippi claimed to have ties to White supremacist groups and blamed the Sept. 11 attacks on a Jewish person. He researched previous attacks on the power grid and believed that damaging multiple power stations simultaneously would cripple the country. Philippi allegedly intended to use a homemade drone armed with explosives for his attack.
When the FBI arrested Philippi, they found him in a car with a live bomb and the drone. He had previously given his gun to an informant he believed was acting as a lookout. FBI Special Agent Joe Carrico stated that Philippi had conducted extensive research on explosive devices and potential targets for his attack. Philippi faces charges of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempted destruction of an energy facility. He has not yet entered a plea in court.
FBI Director Christopher Wray condemned Philippi’s actions, stating that he had been driven by a racially motivated violent extremist ideology. Wray commended the FBI’s swift work in detecting and disrupting the plot before Philippi could cause any damage. He emphasized the FBI’s commitment to holding accountable anyone who seeks to harm American communities through domestic violent extremism. Philippi’s case highlights the ongoing threat posed by individuals with extremist beliefs who may target critical infrastructure.
The criminal complaint against Philippi details his alleged plans to attack the power grid with a drone and explosives, potentially leaving hospitals and thousands of Americans without power. His discussions with government informants and undercover FBI agents led to his arrest before he could carry out his planned attack. Philippi’s case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation in combating domestic terrorism. The swift action taken by law enforcement in this case prevented a potentially devastating act of violence and underscores the continued efforts to disrupt and deter attacks by those espousing extremist beliefs.
