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Grand Jury Indicts 4 in Alleged Southern California New Year’s Bombing Plot

Prosecutors describe an undercover tip-driven FBI probe that culminated in Mojave Desert arrests during alleged explosive testing.

Overview

  • AUDREY CARROLL, ZACHARY AARON PAGE, DANTE GAFFIELD, and TINA LAI were charged, with Carroll and Page also accused of conspiring to use a weapon of mass destruction.
  • Prosecutors say the plot envisioned backpacks packed with explosive devices at multiple logistics or business centers timed to detonate at midnight on Dec. 31.
  • The defendants allegedly discussed follow-on attacks targeting ICE agents and vehicles with pipe bombs in early 2026.
  • Investigators point to a handwritten “Operation Midnight Sun” plan, encrypted messaging, and seized bomb-making materials such as potassium nitrate, sulfur, charcoal, and pipes.
  • All four remain held without bond with January arraignments scheduled, and maximum penalties include life in prison for Carroll and Page if convicted.