LONDON — A third teenager has been arrested in connection with the foiled attack on now-canceled Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, according to an announcement by Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner on Friday.
Karner, who made the announcement at an unrelated press conference, said the 18-year-old Iraqi citizen was taken into custody in Austria’s capital on Thursday evening after allegedly being in contact with the main suspect — a 19-year-old Austrian citizen who was arrested early Wednesday. A 17-year-old suspected accomplice — another Austrian citizen — was also arrested later Wednesday.
Karner noted that “intensive investigations” continue.
A 15-year-old Turkish citizen was earlier detained and interrogated by authorities but is not considered a suspect.
Taylor Swift’s three concerts in Vienna were canceled after the first two suspects were arrested for allegedly plotting a terror attack, authorities said.
“We have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety,” a message from Barracuda Music said. “All tickets will be automatically refunded.”
Cars transit in Caile, where the main suspect of planning an attack at the venue of three Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna is from, in North Macedonia, August 8, 2024. REUTERS/Ognen Teofilovski
Ognen Teofilovski/Reuters
The suspects allegedly radicalized themselves online, Franz Ruf, director-general for public safety in the Ministry of the Interior, said at a press conference. The 19-year-old suspect allegedly pledged allegiance to the leader of the Islamic State at the beginning of July, Ruf said.
Investigators are not convinced that the alleged plot would have worked and they do not know if a functioning bomb was produced. However, Viennese investigators did find explosive precursor chemicals which showed a degree of motivation and planning, sources told ABC News.
Investigators in Austria are looking at surveillance footage to determine whether one or more of the suspects had previously visited the concert site for reconnaissance or if they had visited other potential targets.
As ABC News has previously reported, law enforcement officials have been concerned about mass gathering attacks since the deadly Moscow concert hall assault earlier this year for which ISIS-K claimed credit.
Vienna, Austria – The plot thickens in the attempted attack on Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna, as authorities have now arrested a third teenager in connection to the planned violence. The 17-year-old suspect, whose identity has not been released, was apprehended by police on Tuesday evening following a tip from a concerned citizen.
The foiled attack, which was planned to take place during Swift’s upcoming concerts in Vienna, has sent shockwaves through the music industry and has raised concerns about the safety of performers and concertgoers alike. The first two suspects, both 18-year-old males, were arrested last week after authorities uncovered their plans to detonate homemade explosives at the venue.
According to reports, the teenagers had been inspired by extremist ideologies and had been radicalized online. They had reportedly been in communication with like-minded individuals and had been planning the attack for several months. Authorities have since launched a thorough investigation into the matter and are working to determine if there are any other individuals involved in the plot.
Swift, who is currently on her “Fearless” tour, has yet to comment on the incident. However, her security team has assured fans that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone attending her concerts.
The attempted attack on Swift’s concerts in Vienna serves as a stark reminder of the threats that performers face in today’s world. It also highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public in preventing acts of violence.
As the investigation into the foiled attack continues, authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects or their plans to come forward. Concertgoers are also being advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to venue security or local law enforcement.
In the wake of this disturbing incident, it is clear that the safety and security of artists and their fans must be a top priority. Concert organizers and law enforcement agencies must work together to ensure that events are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. Let us hope that this incident serves as a wake-up call for all involved and that measures are taken to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
