SALT LAKE CITY—A juvenile suspect from Wyoming was arrested at the Salt Lake City International Airport on Sunday, March 31, 2024, by members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, for allegedly making terroristic threats on an airplane.

The Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office has filed allegations by petition alleging Threat of Terrorism. The suspect’s name will not be released because the individual is a minor.

The investigation began on March 22, 2024, when the FBI received information about a social media post of a photo taken on an aircraft at the Salt Lake City International Airport with the caption, “bomb has been planted.” The investigation determined the threat was a hoax and the flight was not disrupted. The juvenile was arrested on March 31 when he returned to Salt Lake City from his destination.

The case was investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes an officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department.

Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Issuing a threat—even over social media, via text message, or through email—is taken very seriously and can have devastating consequences for both the public and for the perpetrators.

Hoax threats disrupt schools and waste law enforcement resources.

Early intervention can prevent a situation from escalating. Remember, if you see something, say something. Hoax threats are not a joke, so think before you post! What Should You Do to Help?

Don’t ever post or send any hoax threats ... period.

If you are a target of an online threat, alert your local law enforcement immediately.

If you see a threat of violence posted on social media, immediately contact local law enforcement or your local FBI office.

Notify authorities, but don’t share or forward the threat until law enforcement has had a chance to investigate—this can spread misinformation and cause panic.

If you are a parent or family member, know that some young people post these threats online as a cry for attention or as a way to get revenge or exert control. Talk to your child about the proper outlet for their stress or other emotions and explain the importance of responsible social media use and the consequences of posting hoax threats.

At the same time, anyone who sees anything suspicious, or knows of a person planning to commit violence, should immediately contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Resources: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/hoax-threats-awareness-100518