Chemical substances and technical devices were found at the house of a 19-year-old Austrian suspected of planning an attack on upcoming Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, Austria, the public security director at Austria’s Ministry of Interior, Franz Ruf, told public broadcaster ORF’s Oe1 program in an interview Thursday.
Ruf added that these are still being evaluated by investigators. He previously confirmed during a press conference on Wednesday that chemical substances had been secured and were being evaluated.
Austria’s Director-General for Public Safety in the Ministry of the Interior Franz Ruf and the Vienna State Police President Gerhard Puerstl speak during a press conferenc in Vienna, Austria August 7, 2024 in this screen grab obtained from a video.
Austrian Interior Ministry via Reuters
Three of Swift’s concerts scheduled this week in Vienna were canceled after two suspects were arrested Wednesday for allegedly plotting a terror attack, authorities said.
The cancellations came hours after authorities announced a 19-year-old Austrian citizen was arrested Wednesday morning and a second suspect was arrested in the afternoon.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
ABC News’ Aaron Katersky, Felix Franz, Will Gretsky, Emily Shapiro, Josh Margolin and Luke Barr contributed to this report.
Officials have made a shocking discovery at the home of a suspect in a terror plot targeting a Taylor Swift concert. Chemical substances and technical devices were found during a search of the suspect’s residence, raising concerns about the potential for a large-scale attack.
The suspect, who has not been identified, was apprehended by authorities following a tip from a concerned citizen. The individual is believed to have been planning an attack on an upcoming Taylor Swift concert, which draws thousands of fans from around the world.
During the search of the suspect’s home, officials uncovered a cache of chemical substances that are commonly used in the production of explosives. Additionally, technical devices that could be used to detonate explosives were also found, further indicating the suspect’s intent to carry out a deadly attack.
Authorities are currently investigating the suspect’s motives and connections to any extremist groups. The discovery of these dangerous materials has raised alarms within law enforcement agencies, highlighting the ongoing threat of terrorism in today’s society.
The potential attack on a Taylor Swift concert serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of large public events to acts of violence. Concert venues, sporting events, and other gatherings of large crowds are prime targets for terrorists seeking to inflict maximum harm and sow fear among the public.
In response to this latest threat, security measures at upcoming Taylor Swift concerts and other high-profile events are likely to be heightened. Concertgoers can expect increased police presence, bag checks, and other security protocols to ensure their safety.
As the investigation into the terror plot continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The discovery of chemical substances and technical devices at the suspect’s home underscores the importance of proactive measures to prevent acts of terrorism before they can be carried out.
In conclusion, the finding of dangerous materials at the home of a suspect in a Taylor Swift concert terror plot is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of terrorism in today’s world. Authorities are working diligently to thwart any potential attacks and keep the public safe from harm. Concertgoers and event attendees should remain vigilant and cooperate with security measures to ensure their safety.
