Mark Adams Prieto facing federal charges for planning mass shooting in Atlanta, wanted to start ‘race war’

A federal indictment has revealed a chilling plot to target a concert at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, allegedly orchestrated by 58-year-old Mark Adams Prieto from Prescott, Arizona. The indictment, filed on Tuesday, accuses Prieto of planning a racially motivated attack aimed at harming African Americans and other minorities.

The charges against Prieto include firearms trafficking, supplying a firearm for a hate crime, and possessing an unregistered firearm. Court documents outline how Prieto discussed his plan with undercover FBI agents, who were posing as potential accomplices, between January and May 2024.

Authorities have not specified which concert was targeted, but the indictment’s timeframe coincides with two performances by the popular singer Bad Bunny at the Atlanta venue in May. The investigation was launched after authorities became aware of Prieto’s intentions.

Prieto, known as a vendor at gun shows in Prescott, Arizona, allegedly sought to “incite a race war” ahead of the 2024 election. He is reported to have conducted private firearm sales to avoid detection by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). In January, undercover agents and a source revealed Prieto’s discussions about targeting a rap concert in Atlanta, chosen because of the city’s significant Black population.

The indictment provides a detailed account of Prieto’s alleged conversations and activities. These included his explicit intentions to target a concert to maximize harm against minority communities. The undercover agents successfully gathered enough evidence to prevent the potential attack and bring Prieto into custody.

The case has raised serious concerns about racially motivated violence and the illegal trafficking of firearms. It also underscores the importance of proactive law enforcement efforts to prevent hate crimes and protect public safety.

The FBI and other federal authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover any additional details and potential co-conspirators. In the meantime, Prieto remains in custody, awaiting trial.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats posed by individuals motivated by racial hatred and the critical role of undercover operations in thwarting such plans.

The community and concertgoers are advised to stay informed and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of public events. As the investigation progresses, further updates will be provided to keep the public aware of any developments.