A 21 year old man has been formally charged with terrorism in Austria after prosecutors alleged he planned an attack during one of Taylor Swift’s concerts in Vienna in August 2024.
According to Austrian authorities, the suspect is accused of preparing an attack that forced the cancellation of three shows on Swift’s record breaking tour. The concerts were called off after officials warned of a serious security threat.
A spokesperson for the Vienna Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the accused remains in pre trial detention. Austrian media identified the suspect as Beran A., reporting that he was arrested in August 2024.
Prosecutors allege that the 21 year old obtained online instructions on how to build a bomb using organic peroxide based explosives, materials often associated with extremist groups such as the so called Islamic State. Authorities claim he managed to produce a small quantity of explosive material.
Investigators also stated that the suspect attempted multiple times to illegally purchase weapons abroad and bring them into Austria.
In addition, he is suspected of being involved in planning other potential attacks outside Austria, including in Dubai and Istanbul, although those alleged plots were never carried out.
The case has sent shockwaves through Europe’s entertainment industry, raising fresh concerns about security at major live events. With millions of fans attending global tours, the incident underscores the growing challenge authorities face in preventing lone actor attacks inspired or coordinated online.
The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors prepare for trial.
