Marvin Aneer Jalo: Teen arrested for attempted terrorist attack on Pride Parade will be tried as an adult

Jalo was allegedly planning an an ISIS-inspired attack using an explosive remote-controlled drone.

PUBLISHED OCT 24, 2024

Authorities revealed that Jalo had been researching potential targets, with the Phoenix Pride Parade high on his list.

Phoenix, Arizona: A 17-year-old from Peoria, Arizona, is facing terrorism charges after authorities foiled an alleged plot to attack the Phoenix Pride Parade. The teen, identified as Marvin Aneer Jalo, was arrested just one day before the event, which took place over the weekend. Jalo was allegedly planning an an ISIS-inspired attack using an explosive remote-controlled drone.

Local and federal law enforcement, including the FBI, responded swiftly after receiving a tip from the suspect’s mother in April, who expressed concerns about his behavior. According to court documents, the teen had reportedly become radicalized and expressed homophobic views. Investigators say Jalo had been active in online chat rooms since late 2023, discussing plans to bomb the 2024 Phoenix Pride Parade and take over the event.

Authorities revealed that Jalo had been researching potential targets, with the Phoenix Pride Parade high on his list. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell explained that Jalo had discussed the materials needed to construct an improvised explosive device and had even ordered chemicals online.

A search warrant on Jalo’s phone revealed numerous photos of firearms and an instructional video depicting an ISIS fighter making the explosive Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP).

"He had posted various videos of himself making explosives," Mitchell added.

Jalo’s arrest came just 24 hours before the Pride Parade, which drew thousands of participants and spectators to Steel Indian School Park. Phoenix Pride officials held a press conference shortly after the arrest, expressing relief that the attack was prevented.

"While this news is emotional and traumatic for many in our community, we are grateful that the plot was thwarted," officials stated.

Jalo, who is being charged as an adult, is currently in custody. The investigation remains ongoing.

Governor Katie Hobbs said, "I’m shocked and horrified at the alleged plot to attack innocent Arizonans and members of the LGBTQ community who attended the Phoenix Pride festival, and I’m grateful for the swift actions taken by law enforcement to prevent a potential tragedy. Arizonans must come together to reject hate wherever we find it. I was proud to serve as Grand Marshall of the Phoenix Pride parade this year, and I’ll continue to stand with the LGBTQ community in the face of bigotry and violent extremism."