FBI Thwarts Alleged ISIS-Inspired Gun Attack Plot in Pennsylvania

Federal investigators in the United States have apprehended Jonathan Hunter Kramer, a 21-year-old from Valencia, Pennsylvania, accusing him of orchestrating a violent attack in support of the Islamic State. The Department of Justice released court documents on Tuesday outlining the alleged conspiracy.

According to the federal criminal complaint, Kramer operated under the alias “Hamza Al Rashid” and claimed allegiance to ISIS. He reportedly offered explosive manuals to associates and expressed a desire to equip himself for a “mission,” indicating he was primarily seeking a weapon. Authorities noted that Kramer had been monitored by the FBI since 2023, when state charges were filed regarding a alleged mass casualty plot and possession of child sexual abuse material.

The most recent developments began after a tipster alerted the bureau to Kramer’s activities. On September 12, agents observed him taking a rideshare to purchase a disposable phone and meet an individual carrying a large black bag. He subsequently checked into a hotel and visited a sporting goods store, where he was spotted at the firearm counter. FBI agents intercepted him in the parking lot following this visit.

A subsequent search warrant execution revealed an arsenal in Kramer’s possession and hotel room, including a semiautomatic rifle, five rifle magazines with a combined capacity of 90 rounds, a total of 190 rounds of ammunition, a rifle scope and bipod, an entrenchment tool, pepper spray, approximately 30 knives, and a prayer rug. Investigators also recovered a handwritten note reading, “DoNt look For me[.] IDK what I did buT I cant live In constant Fear[.]”

FBI Director Kash Patel stated that Kramer was actively engaged in plotting a violent attack, consuming ISIS propaganda, developing attack concepts, and utilizing extremist rhetoric while procuring weaponry.

Attorney General Todd Blanche highlighted the timing of the intervention, noting it occurred as Americans commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. “Their outstanding work thwarted this alleged attack before innocent lives could be lost,” Blanche said. “The Department of Justice will relentlessly pursue anyone who seeks to terrorize the American people and bring them to justice.”