Man Charged Over Alleged Terror Plot Targeting Taylor Swift Concerts in Austria

A 21-year-old Austrian man has been charged with plotting terror attacks at Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concerts in Vienna, authorities confirmed, following intelligence warnings that led to the cancellation of the shows in 2024.

Austrian prosecutors have charged a 21-year-old man for allegedly planning terror attacks at Taylor Swift concerts scheduled in Vienna in August 2024. The suspect, identified by Austrian media as Beran A., is accused of pledging allegiance to the Islamic State and preparing for violent attacks.

Authorities allege that the accused shared extremist propaganda, accessed online instructions to construct a shrapnel bomb, and produced a small quantity of explosive material. Prosecutors also claim he attempted multiple times to illegally purchase weapons abroad and smuggle them into Austria.

The charges follow the cancellation of three sold-out Eras Tour concerts in Vienna after U.S. intelligence flagged a credible threat. Three suspects were arrested at the time, but the concerts were cancelled due to security concerns, with tens of thousands of fans refunded.

The alleged plot came shortly after a deadly stabbing incident at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in northern England, where three girls were killed and several others injured. Authorities also drew parallels to the 2017 Manchester Arena suicide bombing during an Ariana Grande concert, which killed 22 people.

A subsequent inquiry into the Manchester attack found that British intelligence missed a significant opportunity to intervene, highlighting the importance of early intelligence action in preventing mass-casualty events.

Austrian authorities have reiterated their commitment to preventing extremist violence and ensuring public safety at major events.