Federal authorities in Utah have apprehended two individuals, Adeeb Nasir, 58, and Adil Justice Ahme Nasir, 31, following an attempted attack involving an explosive device placed beneath a media vehicle. This incident occurred on Friday, mere days after the high-profile assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, located less than an hour from the suspects' residence in Magna, Utah.
According to reports, the targeted vehicle belonged to Fox 13 Salt Lake City and was stationed under an inhabited building at the time of the incident. While the device was ignited, it failed to explode. The FBI took charge of the case, treating it as a genuine threat given the public nature of the setting.
By Sunday, extensive investigative efforts led law enforcement to the Nasirs. A search warrant executed at their home resulted in the discovery of mock explosive devices, illegal narcotics, bomb-making components, and two firearms. The men's status as restricted persons due to known narcotics use prohibited them from legally possessing these weapons.
During questioning, the suspects asserted the authenticity of the devices, prompting an evacuation and the initiation of disposal procedures. Despite the initial concern, it was later determined that the devices found in the home were not functional.
The Nasirs' arrest has brought significant attention, not only due to the proximity of the incident to the recent assassination but also because of the nature of the target—a media outlet's vehicle. The station manager of FOX 13, Leona Wood, has stated the station's commitment to employee safety and ongoing collaboration with law enforcement.
Adeeb Nasir, who is originally from Pakistan, faces multiple felony charges, including the construction of weapons of mass destruction and terrorism threats, and is being held without bail. Meanwhile, no charges have been filed against Adil Justice Ahme Nasir, although he remains in custody.
The relationship between the two men has yet to be clarified, though they both resided in the same Magna home. The incident has sparked concerns among Fox 13 News staff and heightened scrutiny of security measures for media personnel.
The FBI continues to spearhead the investigation, and as of yet, officials have not revealed a motive nor indicated a connection between this incident and the assassination of Charlie Kirk. The sequence of events has left the community on edge, as authorities work to piece together the intentions behind the attempted bombing.
