In a deeply troubling revelation, federal authorities have indicted 58-year-old Mark Adams Prieto of Prescott, Arizona, in connection with a plot to carry out a racially motivated attack at a concert in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena. The indictment, filed on Tuesday, accuses Prieto of firearms trafficking, supplying a firearm for a hate crime, and possessing an unregistered firearm.
According to court documents, Prieto conspired with undercover FBI agents posing as potential accomplices between January and May 2024. The plan allegedly targeted a concert in May with the intention of harming African Americans and other minorities, reflecting a broader desire to incite racial violence.
Authorities became aware of Prieto’s intentions through his interactions with the undercover agents. These interactions revealed that Prieto, a vendor at gun shows in Prescott, had expressed a desire to “incite a race war” ahead of the 2024 election. He allegedly selected the concert venue due to the large African American population in Atlanta and the high concentration of African Americans expected at the event.
The investigation into Prieto’s activities began in earnest after he discussed his plans with an undercover FBI agent. Conversations reportedly revealed that Prieto planned to target a rap concert, specifically citing the demographics of the attendees as his motive. The indictment notes that Prieto intended to leave Confederate flags as symbols of hate at the scene and shout racist slogans during the attack.
The specific concert that was targeted remains unidentified, but the timeframe mentioned in the indictment coincides with two performances by the popular singer Bad Bunny at the State Farm Arena in May. These performances attracted large, diverse crowds, aligning with Prieto’s alleged objectives.
Firearms Trafficking and Hate Crime Charges
The charges against Prieto include firearms trafficking, supplying a firearm for a hate crime, and possessing an unregistered firearm. Reports indicate that Prieto conducted private firearm sales to avoid scrutiny from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). During these transactions, Prieto allegedly sold rifles on multiple occasions to one of the undercover agents.
Mark Adams Prieto’s background includes his role as a vendor at gun shows, where he facilitated the sale of firearms. Investigations into his directory page, which was originally reported to be in Arizona but is actually in Florida, revealed attempts to obscure information about his relatives and associates. Authorities believe that Prieto’s actions were ideologically driven, aimed at provoking racial tensions and violence.
Hattiesburg Police Chief Hardy Sims issued a statement expressing the gravity of the situation: “Our hearts and prayers go out to the Daniels family. We are doing all that we can to locate the perpetrators to bring justice to the victim and his family. We are asking the community for their help and to come forward with any information pertaining to this tragic incident and the untimely death of Marcus Daniels. We will share as much information as possible without jeopardizing the investigation. We are working closely with the university and local officials.”
The community and law enforcement agencies have expressed their deep concern over the planned attack and are urging the public to assist with any information that could further the investigation. Crime Stoppers has offered cash rewards for information leading to felony arrests, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation.
The indictment of Mark Adams Prieto highlights the ongoing threat posed by racially motivated violence and the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts to prevent such attacks. The investigation underscores the necessity of undercover operations and community vigilance in identifying and neutralizing threats before they can be executed.
As the case progresses, federal authorities will continue to work with local law enforcement and the community to ensure that justice is served and that similar threats are mitigated. The collaboration between agencies and the use of undercover agents were crucial in thwarting Prieto’s plans and preventing potential loss of life.
The indictment of Mark Adams Prieto serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by hate-fueled ideologies and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard communities. The efforts of law enforcement agencies and the cooperation of the public are vital in addressing and preventing racially motivated violence. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and protecting the community from future threats.
