Taylor Swift Vienna 2024 Concert Terror Plot: 21-Year-Old Arrested Over Alleged ISIS-Linked Bomb Plan
US intelligence tip-off helped thwart alleged ISIS-linked bombing attempt targeting August shows
US, Feb 17 : The legal fallout from the Taylor Swift Vienna concert terror plot has begun, with Austrian prosecutors formally charging a 21-year-old man accused of planning a terrorist attack on the singer’s August 2024 performances in the city.
Authorities say the suspect intended to target one of the Vienna shows, which were later cancelled amid what officials initially described only as a “serious threat.” The cancellations shocked thousands of fans at the time. Now, prosecutors have revealed details they describe as deeply alarming.
Alleged ISIS links and bomb research
According to investigators, the accused had expressed support for the extremist group ISIS by circulating propaganda material via messaging platforms. Prosecutors allege that he also researched methods to construct a shrapnel device using triacetone triperoxide (TATP), a highly volatile explosive frequently associated with terror attacks.
Officials claim he managed to produce a small quantity of the substance and made repeated attempts to illegally procure weapons from outside Austria with the intention of smuggling them into the country.
The suspect remains in custody, and the case is expected to proceed before a court in Wiener Neustadt, near Vienna. Austrian media had earlier identified him as Beran A., reporting that he was detained in August 2024 as preparations for the concerts were underway.
Concert cancellations and security response
The three Vienna shows headlined by Taylor Swift were abruptly called off last year, leaving fans disappointed but authorities firm that public safety took priority. Security agencies now confirm the decision followed the disruption of the alleged plot.
US intelligence assistance
The investigation also involved international cooperation. At the time, US officials confirmed that American intelligence services had shared critical information with Austrian counterparts to monitor and neutralise potential threats connected to the concerts.
Former White House national security spokesperson John Kirby had publicly acknowledged the intelligence-sharing effort in August 2024.
With charges now filed, Austrian prosecutors say the case marks a significant step in addressing what they describe as a planned act of terrorism targeting a major public event.
