⏱ 2 min read
A former U.S. Navy SEAL, Gregory Vandenberg, 49, was traveling from El Paso, Texas, to San Diego, California, to attend the ‘No Kings Day’ protests on June 14, 2025, with a deadly plan. On June 12, 2025, Vandenberg stopped at a travel center in New Mexico, where he purchased explosives, including mortar fireworks and M-150 firecrackers, with the intention of throwing them at law enforcement officers. His actions were motivated by extremist, antisemitic beliefs, prosecutors argued. Vandenberg’s plan posed a serious risk of injury or death to officers and bystanders alike.
During his visit to the travel center, Vandenberg asked detailed questions about the amount of gunpowder in the fireworks, their explosive impact, and their ability to harm others. He also discussed taping multiple fireworks together to increase their explosive force, making it clear that he was only interested in the explosives’ ability to create harm. Employees, alarmed by Vandenberg’s statements, recorded his license plate and contacted law enforcement, leading to his arrest in Tucson, Arizona.
Vandenberg’s arrest and subsequent sentencing serve as a reminder of the dangers of domestic terrorism and the importance of vigilant law enforcement. The former Navy SEAL was sentenced to 16 months in prison, with no parole in the federal system. The case highlights the need for continued efforts to prevent and combat extremist ideologies that promote violence against law enforcement and innocent civilians.
The investigation and arrest of Vandenberg were the result of a collaborative effort between federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF. The case demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public in preventing and responding to violent crimes.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Violent Crime
- Defendant: California
- Location: NM
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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