A 24-year-old Columbia, Tennessee resident has been arrested by federal authorities for allegedly planning to attack Nashville's electrical infrastructure using an explosives-laden drone. Skyler Philippi faces federal charges of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and attempting to destroy an energy facility.
According to federal investigators, Philippi allegedly conducted extensive research on electrical substations and planned to disable them using explosive devices delivered by drone. The FBI reports that they intercepted the plot before any damage occurred.
Court documents indicate that the investigation began in June 2024 when Philippi allegedly shared his intentions with confidential sources. Over several months, he conducted reconnaissance of potential targets and acquired materials including black powder for pipe bombs.
Investigators say the suspect was motivated by white supremacist ideology and aimed to cause widespread disruption to critical infrastructure. He was arrested on November 2, 2024, allegedly as he prepared to execute the attack, with an armed explosive device and powered-up drone in his possession.
If convicted of the charges, Philippi could face life imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee and the Justice Department's National Security Division.
The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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