A stolen military weapons arsenal, Nazi paraphernalia, and rifles positioned at windows revealed an alarming threat posed by White Nationalist extremists raided by FBI and Army investigators in Washington State.
Key Takeaways
- FBI and Army investigators discovered 35 stolen military firearms, including an MG42 machine gun and short barrel rifles, at a residence in Lacey, Washington
- The raid uncovered extensive Nazi paraphernalia, confirming the suspects’ involvement in Nazi White Nationalist activities
- Multiple rifles were strategically positioned at windows throughout the house, suggesting preparation for violent confrontation
- Two individuals were arrested on firearms charges following a violent robbery and assault at Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Additional seized items included grenade launchers, explosives, body armor, ammunition, and ballistic helmets
Alarming Arsenal and Nazi Materials Uncovered
In a coordinated operation, the FBI and Army Criminal Investigation Division raided a residence in Lacey, Washington, uncovering a disturbing cache of stolen military weapons and Nazi items. The law enforcement action revealed 35 firearms, including highly dangerous short barrel rifles and an MG42 machine gun – a weapon infamously used by Nazi Germany during World War II. The extensive arsenal also contained multiple grenade launchers, explosives, body armor, ammunition, and ballistic protective gear, indicating preparation for significant violence. The weaponry appears to have been stolen from military facilities, raising serious questions about security protocols at military installations.
“The suspects identified in this case were actively involved in Nazi White Nationalist efforts,” said Derek Sanders, Thurston County Sheriff.
Military Theft and Assault Connection
The raid stemmed from an investigation into a violent robbery and assault at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. FBI officials confirmed they were “assisting our partners Thurston County Sheriff’s Office and Army Criminal Investigation Division” in the operation that led to the arrests. According to Sheriff Sanders, the search was executed “as a result of a violent robbery and theft of military weaponry/armor.” The direct theft from a military installation represents a critical breach of security, highlighting vulnerabilities that allowed dangerous individuals to acquire powerful weapons intended solely for military use. The incident raises urgent concerns about safeguards for military armaments.
Neo-Nazi Threat and Strategic Positioning
Among the most disturbing aspects of the raid was the discovery of extensive Nazi paraphernalia throughout the residence, including Nazi flags prominently displayed. This clear evidence of extremist ideology corresponded with the tactical positioning of multiple rifles at windows throughout the home, suggesting the occupants had prepared defensive firing positions. Investigators noted this positioning indicated readiness for violent confrontation with authorities or others. The combination of military-grade weapons, Nazi ideology, and tactical preparation presents a stark picture of domestic extremism preparing for potential violence.
“As a result of a violent robbery and theft of military weaponry/armor,” the search was executed, explained Derek Sanders, Thurston County Sheriff.
Legal Proceedings and Further Investigation
The two individuals arrested during the raid have been booked on firearms-related charges and were expected to appear in US District Court in Tacoma. Additional details about the suspects and the full extent of their activities were anticipated in a federal criminal complaint to be unsealed in coming days. Law enforcement officials have not yet released the identities of the suspects or specific details about their affiliations with organized extremist groups. However, the clear Nazi symbolism and Sheriff Sanders’ confirmation of their involvement in White Nationalist efforts suggests connections to broader extremist networks that may be operating in the region.
