FBI Gate Crash: Henson Faces Federal Charges

PITTSBURGH, PA – A brazen attack on a federal installation left a security gate in ruins and one Penn Hills man facing serious federal charges. Donald Phillip Henson, 46, was arrested this morning after allegedly driving his vehicle directly into a security gate at the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office. He then fled the scene on foot, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a chilling message.

Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti didn’t mince words, stating, “Today, we commend the Federal Bureau of Investigation and our law enforcement partners for their outstanding work in quickly apprehending Donald Henson following his violent and destructive assault this morning. Our office remains vigilant and stands in solidarity with our law enforcement colleagues in response to any attack—whether to their persons or to their property.” The incident occurred at approximately 2:40 a.m. on September 17, 2025, and was captured by multiple security cameras.

According to the affidavit, Henson deliberately rammed his vehicle into the gate, which sits directly beside a 24/7 manned security booth. After the crash, witnesses say Henson retrieved an American flag from his vehicle and placed it on the damaged gate before making his escape. The sheer audacity of the act, combined with the symbolic gesture, immediately raised red flags for investigators. Henson later admitted to knowing a guard was present in the booth at the time of the impact.

But the most disturbing revelation came with Henson’s own words. Upon being apprehended, he confessed to intentionally crashing into the gate “to make a statement.” He then chillingly uttered the Latin phrase “sic semper tyrannis” – a phrase infamously associated with John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of Abraham Lincoln. This historical reference casts a dark shadow over the incident and suggests a potentially politically motivated attack.

Henson is now charged with forcibly assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, or interfering with a governmental officer or employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a)(1) and (b). He also faces charges for damaging government property, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1361. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the assault charge. Damage exceeding $1,000 could add another 10 years and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence will be determined based on the severity of the offenses and Henson’s criminal history.

Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt will prosecute the case. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the University of Pittsburgh Police and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. It’s crucial to remember that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and Henson is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Grimy Times will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.