Police in Austria have interrogated three teenagers believed to be involved in a planned suicide attack at a Taylor Swift concert, raising new alarms about the online radicalization of youth.
According to Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, foreign intelligence agencies aided in unveiling the alleged plot. A source informed that US authorities provided a warning to officials in Vienna. As a result, the organizers decided to cancel three concerts that were set to occur in the city from Thursday to Saturday. CNN has contacted representatives for Swift for further comment.
Investigators discovered a cache of chemicals, explosive devices, detonators, and €21,000 in counterfeit money at the home of the prime suspect, a 19-year-old ISIS sympathizer who had become radicalized through online channels, authorities reported.
The suspect was arrested early Wednesday in the eastern town of Ternitz and allegedly intended to carry out an attack to kill himself and numerous others during the concert. Omar Haijawi-Pirchner, head of the country’s domestic intelligence agency, revealed that the suspect aimed to use explosives and knives.
Two additional suspects, aged 17 and 15, were also detained. The 17-year-old worked for a facilities company associated with the concert venue and was arrested near the stadium shortly after breaking up with his girlfriend. Little information is available regarding the 15-year-old, and prosecutors will later determine his level of involvement in the alleged conspiracy.
All three suspects were born in Austria and have Turkish, North Macedonian, or Croatian backgrounds. They communicated with individuals who were aware of the plan, but authorities stated that no additional suspects are being pursued in connection with the case.
The cancellation of the concert saddened fans anticipated to see Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour in Vienna, which has gained attention for its cultural impact and economic benefits for host cities. This leg of the tour had begun in March 2023 in Glendale, Arizona, and was supposed to be the final European stop before Swift’s upcoming concerts in London and Canada.
In light of the cancellations, London Mayor Sadiq Khan affirmed that scheduled events in his city would proceed, ensuring a safe environment for the performances.
Excitement had swept through Vienna in the lead-up to the concerts, with fans engaging in celebratory activities despite the cancellations. Several individuals organized events to maintain the energizing spirit of the tour, with footage showing fans singing together in local squares and exchanging friendship bracelets—a tradition inspired by Swift’s lyrics.
Julia Schnizlein, a local pastor, organized a sing-along at her church for fans who were left disappointed. Witnesses described a heartfelt atmosphere as attendees sang popular Swift songs, creating a moment of joy amidst their dismay.
Fans gathered in the city to share their experiences and support one another after the concert cancellations, emphasizing their strong sense of community despite the unfortunate events.