Mark Adams Prieto : Arizona Man Facing Federal Charges for Planning Atlanta Mass Shooting, Wanted to Start ‘Race War’ – WSB-TV Channel 2

ATLANTA — In a disturbing turn of events, an Arizona man, Mark Adams Prieto, was arrested in May for allegedly planning a mass shooting in Atlanta with the intention of targeting African Americans in the city to incite a race war. The U.S. Department of Justice revealed that Prieto was involved in selling rifles to individuals to provide weapons for initiating a race war ahead of the 2024 Presidential Election.

Following a thorough investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Prieto was indicted by a federal grand jury. The probe, which began in October 2023, was initiated after a reliable source reported Prieto’s desire to incite a race war before the upcoming presidential election. The source had interacted with Prieto at various gun shows over a three-year period, leading to discussions on political matters.

Over time, Prieto’s comments became increasingly concerning, with the source noting that he advocated for a mass shooting targeting specific groups such as Blacks, Jews, or Muslims. Prieto allegedly believed that martial law would be implemented soon after the 2024 election and expressed a desire to carry out a mass shooting before this scenario unfolded.

Undercover Investigation Reveals Disturbing Details

The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Phoenix, Arizona, submitted an affidavit detailing the investigation into Prieto’s activities. It was revealed that Prieto worked as a gun show vendor in Prescott, Arizona, where he sold a significant number of firearms from his personal collection. The affidavit also highlighted Prieto’s preference for conducting off-book trades using cash or barter to avoid potential issues with authorities.

During the surveillance period from January to March, undercover agents met with Prieto at a gun show in mid-January. While initially engaging in casual conversation, Prieto later disclosed his plans for a violent attack. He specifically mentioned his intention to commit crimes of violence against African Americans in Atlanta, proposing a mass shooting at a rap concert in the city.

Racially Motivated Attack Planned for Atlanta

Prieto elaborated on his choice of Atlanta for the attack, citing demographic shifts and expressing disdain for the city’s current state. He emphasized his desire to target a rap concert due to the high concentration of African Americans in attendance. Prieto also revealed plans to leave Confederate flags at the scene as a symbol of defiance.

Throughout the investigation, Prieto reiterated that the attack was racially motivated and not gang-related. He emphasized the need for a high body count of victims and expressed his intention to shout slogans like “KKK all the way” during the assault.

Arrest and Legal Consequences

In mid-May, Prieto was apprehended by law enforcement while traveling to Florida to visit his mother. During the arrest on Interstate 40, Prieto was found in possession of seven firearms. Subsequent searches of his residence in Prescott uncovered additional firearms, including an unregistered short-barreled rifle.

Currently indicted, Prieto faces charges for firearms trafficking, transfer of a firearm for use in a hate crime, and possession of an unregistered firearm. Each conviction carries severe penalties, including up to 15 years in prison and hefty fines. Prieto’s trial date is yet to be determined.

This shocking case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals seeking to sow division and incite violence in communities. The swift action taken by law enforcement underscores the commitment to preventing such heinous acts and ensuring the safety of all citizens.