Armed Utah Man Making Violent Threats Against President Biden Shot and Killed by FBI Agents
PROVO, Utah (AP) — A man in Utah who was accused of making violent threats against President Joe Biden was shot and killed by FBI agents just hours before the president’s scheduled arrival in the state, authorities said.
The FBI said in a statement that special agents were attempting to serve a warrant on the home of 74-year-old Craig Deleeuw Robertson in Provo, located south of Salt Lake City, when the shooting occurred at 6:15 a.m.
According to law enforcement sources speaking anonymously, Robertson was armed at the time of the confrontation. Robertson had gained attention with his online posts, which included graphic threats against multiple public figures. In these posts, he referred to himself as a “MAGA Trumper” and expressed support for former President Donald Trump, while also making threats against top law enforcement officials involved in cases against Trump.
Neighbors, however, described Robertson as a frail, elderly man who used a hand-carved stick to help him walk. They expressed shock and disbelief at the accusations against him, insisting that he did not seem like a threat.
The incident comes amid escalating attacks on law enforcement by Republicans, who have traditionally positioned themselves as supporters of law and order. Former President Trump has repeatedly criticized the FBI, even though it is led by his own appointee, Christopher Wray. Trump’s attacks on law enforcement officials have raised concerns among officials who warn of the dangers posed by such rhetoric.
President Biden had flown to Utah ahead of his scheduled visit to a Veterans Affairs hospital in Salt Lake City, where he planned to discuss the PACT Act and hold a reelection fundraiser. A White House official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Biden was briefed on the incident.
Investigators found evidence that Robertson possessed a long-range sniper rifle and other weapons, as well as a “ghillie suit” camouflage gear, according to court records. Robertson had been charged with three felony counts, including making threats against the president and FBI agents, prior to his death.
In his online posts, Robertson had also referenced a “presidential assassination” and threatened other public figures, including Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Attorney General Merrick Garland, and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The FBI’s investigation into Robertson began after a tip was received about his threat against Alvin Bragg on Trump’s social media platform, Truth Social. The platform has since suspended Robertson’s account.
Further details about the shooting were not immediately released, as the incident remains under review by the FBI.
At Robertson’s house in Provo, where the confrontation occurred, law enforcement officials were seen entering and exiting the property and removing items. Evidence of a broken window and disheveled blinds could be observed from the exterior. The road leading to the house was blocked off by police.
Neighbors and acquaintances of Robertson expressed surprise at the accusations against him, describing him as a master woodworker and a respected member of the community. Robertson’s collection of approximately 20 guns was deemed unremarkable for the area.
Paul Searing, who had followed Robertson online for years, stated that he had warned Robertson when he believed his posts were crossing a line. While acknowledging Robertson’s strong beliefs in gun rights and freedom of speech, Searing said he did not believe Robertson would act on his frustrations with violence.
The court records also revealed previous encounters between Robertson and the FBI. In one instance, Robertson wore a Trump cap and an “AR-15 style rifle lapel pin” during an interaction with agents. He initially claimed that his threat was merely a dream and demanded they return with a warrant. In subsequent social media posts, he continued to taunt the FBI.
The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement officials in distinguishing between protected speech and actual threats. According to Rita Katz, co-founder of the SITE Intelligence Group, determining the boundaries of free speech can be a complex task.
Robertson operated a custom woodworking business, although state records indicate that he did not renew his license after it expired last year. Prior to his retirement, he worked for 45 years as a structural steel and welding inspector.
President Biden, who is currently on a trip to the Western United States, had been in New Mexico before flying to Salt Lake City.