Home / Crime and Justice / Austrian Court Hears Taylor Swift Attack Plan
Austrian Court Hears Taylor Swift Attack Plan
28 May
Summary
- Man admitted plotting terror attack at Taylor Swift concert.
- He sought to target fans with knives or explosives.
- Defendant apologized before verdict, faces prison.
A trial is underway in Wiener Neustadt, Austria, for a 21-year-old man accused of plotting a terrorist attack at a Taylor Swift concert. The accused, identified as Beran A., admitted to the plot, which authorities say involved targeting fans outside the Ernst Happel Stadium with knives or explosives. This led to the cancellation of Swift's three August 2024 performances.
Prosecutors allege Beran A. was also a member of the Islamic State group and discussed purchasing weapons and making bombs. He is on trial with another individual, Arda K., who is accused of planning simultaneous attacks in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE during Ramadan 2024. Beran A. pleaded not guilty to charges related to the wider international plot.
In his final words to the court on Thursday, Beran A. stated, "I would just like to say that I am sorry." His defense attorney argued he was not an ideological mastermind. The court is now deliberating on a verdict.
