US federal agents shot and killed a man in Utah who was accused of making threats against President Joe Biden and other public figures, according to the FBI. The shooting occurred just hours before President Biden arrived in the state for an official visit.
The incident took place early Wednesday morning when FBI agents attempted to serve a search and arrest warrant at the Provo home of Craig Deleeuw Robertson. Robertson was identified in court documents as being wanted on three federal charges, including making threats against the president and law enforcement.
According to court documents, Robertson had expressed “intent to kill” President Biden and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. The government stated that he had made online threats towards President Biden as recently as Monday. In an internet post, Robertson allegedly mentioned the president’s visit to Utah and claimed to be “cleaning the dust off the M24 sniper rifle.” He also addressed the FBI, indicating that he was prepared with a loaded gun in case they were monitoring his social media and decided to visit his home again.
Law enforcement sources, speaking anonymously to the Associated Press, stated that Robertson was armed at the time of the shooting. The charging sheet also mentioned that he owned multiple firearms. The FBI confirmed that no agents were injured during the incident and that they are conducting a review with their Inspection Division.
In addition to President Biden and Alvin Bragg, the suspect had reportedly made online threats towards several other politicians and officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris, US Attorney General Merrick Garland, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Robertson identified himself as a “MAGA Trumper” and posted threats against officials involved in court cases related to former President Donald Trump.
The investigation into Robertson began in March when Donald Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social, notified law enforcement about threats made by Robertson against Alvin Bragg. However, Robertson’s account has since been suspended.
Shortly after the deadly encounter between Robertson and federal agents, President Biden arrived at Roland R. Wright Air National Guard Base for his visit to Salt Lake City, located approximately 45 miles north of Provo. Although the White House did not confirm the president’s exact location during the trip, increased security measures were observed near a downtown hotel in Salt Lake City later that evening.
The FBI’s swift action in apprehending Robertson highlights the seriousness with which threats against public officials are taken. Such incidents serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for heightened security measures and vigilance in protecting the safety of those in positions of power.
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