NASHVILLE, TN - In a high-stakes operation, federal agents have arrested Skyler Philippi, 24, of Columbia, Tennessee, charging him with attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and plotting to destroy a Nashville energy facility. Philippi, allegedly driven by white supremacist ideology, intended to cripple the power grid by deploying a drone loaded with explosives, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
“Skyler Philippi believed he was moments away from launching an attack on a Nashville energy facility to further his violent white supremacist ideology,” said U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. “This case serves as yet another warning to those seeking to sow violence and chaos in the name of hatred by attacking our country’s critical infrastructure. The Justice Department will find you, we will disrupt your plot, and we will hold you accountable.”
Officials say Philippi’s plan involved extensive reconnaissance, purchasing explosives, and preparing a drone to strike at a substation that could have caused widespread blackouts and disruptions. Starting in June 2024, Philippi reportedly told a confidential source about his desire to commit acts of violence, including mass shootings and large-scale attacks on infrastructure. His alleged ultimate plan to “shock the system” centered on using a drone to carry C-4 explosives to an interstate power substation. Scroll down for photo of alleged bomb, as seen in the court documents.
MORE: Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized that those motivated by racial or ethnic hatred pose a grave threat to national security, adding that the FBI’s swift action was instrumental in thwarting the attack. Philippi’s arrest followed a coordinated effort with undercover FBI employees who accompanied him to survey the target and supplied him with materials he believed were explosive components. His conversations with undercover agents reportedly detailed plans for evading detection, from wearing oversized shoes to discarding clothing after the attack.
The arrest occurred on November 2, 2024, as Philippi, after participating in a Nordic ritual meant to signal the beginning of his “new age,” activated the drone with an explosive device and prepared to move into position. He was taken into custody before any damage could be done, thanks to coordinated efforts by FBI agents and U.S. prosecutors. FBI Director Christopher Wray praised the work of federal law enforcement, reiterating the agency’s commitment to preventing attacks on critical infrastructure.
Philippi faces up to life in prison if convicted. He will be tried in a federal district court, where his sentencing will ultimately be determined according to federal guidelines.
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