Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – An 18-year-old teenager, Alexander Scott Mercurio, was apprehended by authorities in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, as part of an FBI investigation into a potential plan to attack churches in the town. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force took action just a day before the planned attack was set to occur. Mercurio is facing charges of attempting to provide support to the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, according to a federal criminal complaint filed in Idaho.
Authorities revealed that Mercurio had detailed his sinister plan in messages to a FBI source, expressing his intention to harm churchgoers during services. His plan involved carrying weapons such as knives, firearms, and fire to attack multiple churches and cause destruction in the town. The attack was reportedly timed to coincide with the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
If convicted, Mercurio could face up to 20 years in federal prison. Law enforcement officers discovered various weapons and items, including an ISIS flag, butane canisters, lighters, handcuffs, a knife, a pipe, and firearms belonging to his father, during Mercurio’s arrest. Additionally, prosecutors stated that Mercurio had spread ISIS propaganda online and discussed ways to support the group financially, as well as travel to west Africa to aid in its operations.
The investigation into Mercurio’s activities uncovered his connection to a fundraising network that supports ISIS in Syria and its Afghan affiliate. Investigators revealed that Mercurio had expressed allegiance to ISIS, shown support for the group, and outlined his plans to carry out violent acts in the name of the organization. FBI sources met with Mercurio in person, where he reportedly shared his extreme views and intentions.
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the importance of preventing acts of terror like the one Mercurio had planned, commending the efforts of the FBI in thwarting the attack. FBI Director Christopher Wray described Mercurio’s plan as “truly horrific,” underscoring the dangers of self-radicalization and the need to address this threat to communities.
This case sheds light on the dangers posed by individuals who are susceptible to radicalization and the potential threats they may pose. The FBI, along with other intelligence agencies, have been monitoring and addressing possible signs of violence from lone wolf extremists inspired by recent terrorist attacks. The joint intelligence bulletin issued by the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and National Counterterrorism Center highlights the ongoing efforts to safeguard public gatherings in the U.S. from such threats.