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COLUMBIA, Tenn. — Federal agents have arrested a Tennessee man accused of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and planning to destroy an energy facility in Nashville.
Skyler Philippi, 24, of Columbia, was taken into custody on Nov. 2, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. He faces charges related to an alleged plot to attack the Nashville power grid using a drone equipped with explosives.
Alleged Plot Uncovered by FBI
Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that Philippi, driven by white supremacist ideology, believed he was moments away from launching his attack when federal agents intervened. “This case serves as a warning to those seeking to sow violence and chaos by attacking our country’s critical infrastructure: the Justice Department will find you, disrupt your plot, and hold you accountable,” Garland said.
The investigation, led by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, began in June 2024 after Philippi disclosed to a confidential source his intention to carry out a mass shooting at a YMCA in Columbia, Tenn. He later shifted his focus to targeting electric substations to cause widespread blackouts, according to court documents.
Use of Drones and Explosives
Philippi allegedly planned to use a drone loaded with explosives to attack a substation. In September, he conducted reconnaissance of a targeted site with undercover FBI agents, ordering C-4 explosives and black powder for pipe bombs during the operation. Philippi communicated with undercover sources, expressing his desire to inflict significant damage and “shock the system” by disrupting the power grid.
In one text, Philippi wrote: “If you want to do the most damage as an accelerationist, attack high economic, high tax, political zones in every major metropolis.” Referring to his planned attack, he allegedly said, “This will go up like a [expletive] Fourth of July firework.”
The Arrest and Ritualistic Motives
On Nov. 2, the day of his arrest, Philippi participated in a Nordic ritual and discussed the Norse god Odin, declaring it was “time to do something big” that would be remembered “in the annals of history.” As he prepared to launch his attack, federal agents arrested him near the targeted substation with a powered-up drone and an armed explosive device ready for deployment.
Officials Warn of Threats to Critical Infrastructure
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized that the threat posed by racially motivated violent extremists is significant, particularly when targeting critical infrastructure. “Thanks to the brave work by the FBI, this scheme was thwarted,” Monaco said.
FBI Director Christopher Wray commended the swift response of agents, which prevented potential harm to thousands of residents and critical facilities, including hospitals. “We are committed to holding accountable anyone who threatens the security of our infrastructure,” Wray said.
Potential Penalties
Philippi faces charges of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction and attempting to destroy an energy facility. If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. The sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge after reviewing the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Kurtzman of the Middle District of Tennessee and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly from the Justice Department’s Counterterrorism Section.
The FBI Nashville Field Office is leading the investigation, with additional support from federal and local agencies.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and Philippi is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
