In brief
In a shocking incident in Pittsburgh, Donald Phillip Henson crashed his car into an FBI building’s security gate, covering it with an American flag. Henson stated he wanted to 'make a statement' and referenced a historical phrase associated with tyranny during his arrest. Now facing serious charges, he remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. The FBI confirmed the attack targeted the agency but fortunately resulted in no injuries.
PITTSBURGH — A man rammed his car into an FBI security gate in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, draping the vehicle with an American flag. Donald Phillip Henson, 46, later claimed his motivations were meant to 'make a statement,' according to the FBI. Captured seven hours following the incident, Henson was found to have invoked the Latin phrase 'sic semper tyrannis,' which translates to 'thus always to tyrants,' known for its use by John Wilkes Booth after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln.Henson is facing charges including assault with a deadly weapon and damaging government property, and will remain in custody until a detention hearing scheduled for Tuesday. 'This was a targeted attack on this building,' remarked FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Christopher Giordano, confirming that no personnel were harmed during the event.The FBI had previous encounters with Henson, a reported former military member and active Republican voter. Giordano elaborated that Henson visited the FBI field office weeks prior, making incoherent complaints, and noted that the vehicle contained visible messages on its windows and displayed a U.S. Air Force sticker.Investigators, including a bomb squad, did not find any explosives at the scene. The security officer initially mistook the incident for a medical emergency but stayed alert upon seeing Henson return to retrieve the flag, fearing he might be arming himself. In bankruptcy documents, Henson detailed substantial financial troubles, including $380,000 in student loan debt and minimal income.
