Atlanta, Georgia – A 58-year-old man from Arizona has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly planning a violent attack at a Bad Bunny concert in Atlanta, Georgia to incite a race war. Mark Adams Prieto faces charges of firearms trafficking, transfer of a firearm for use in a hate crime, and possession of an unregistered firearm following an investigation by the FBI. Prieto’s arrest last month was the result of a monthslong probe by the FBI into his alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting targeting African Americans, Jews, and Muslims.
The Justice Department disclosed that Prieto is currently in custody and awaiting transport from New Mexico to Arizona. Prieto, a vendor at gun shows, reportedly traded his personal guns in cash or swap deals to avoid detection by authorities. He believed that martial law would be implemented after the 2024 election and allegedly expressed a desire to commit a mass shooting before that happened.
Authorities began investigating Prieto in October after a confidential source reported his intentions to incite a race war. Despite Prieto’s belief that a mass shooting should occur before the election, he claimed to law enforcement that he did not intend to go through with the attack. However, agents found multiple firearms in his possession, including an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
Each conviction on Firearms Trafficking and Transfer of Firearm for Use in a Hate Crime carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. A conviction for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to prevent acts of violence and terrorism.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of all members of the community. The disturbing plot highlights the importance of vigilance against hate crimes and domestic terrorism. People are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.