A bomb threat targeting Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Georgia home, allegedly from a Russian IP address, has sparked a multi-agency investigation and tragically led to a fatal accident.
At a Glance
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s home in Georgia was the target of a bomb threat via email.
- The threat, traced to a Russian IP address, included detailed information about an alleged pipe bomb.
- A woman died in a car accident involving a police officer responding to the threat.
- The FBI is now assisting with the ongoing investigation.
- This incident is part of a series of threats against members of Congress.
Bomb Threat Details and Initial Response
On a tense day in Georgia, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s home became the center of a serious security concern. The Rome Police Department received an email containing a bomb threat directed at the congresswoman’s residence. The message, which authorities say was traced to a Russian IP address, provided alarmingly specific details about an alleged homemade pipe bomb supposedly placed in Greene’s mailbox.
Law enforcement swiftly mobilized to address the threat. A bomb squad was dispatched to Greene’s home to inspect for any explosive devices, with the congresswoman sharing video footage of a squad member examining her mailbox. The threat email warned that the alleged device could detonate over the weekend or upon opening the mailbox, raising immediate concerns for Greene’s safety and that of responding officers.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene claims foreign bomb threat targeted her Georgia home: ‘For Palestine’ https://t.co/BnzPo16Nn5 pic.twitter.com/L49hNt7Cwh
— New York Post (@nypost) December 9, 2024
Tragic Turn of Events
In a heartbreaking development, the response to the threat took a tragic turn. A Rome Police Department officer, who is a member of the Floyd County Bomb Squad, was involved in a traffic accident while en route to Greene’s residence. The collision resulted in the death of the other driver, identified as 66-year-old Tammie Pickelsimer. The Georgia State Patrol has taken charge of investigating this fatal accident, adding another layer of complexity to an already tense situation.
“These violent political threats have fatal consequences. It’s an undue strain on our law enforcement who must treat them seriously. The officer was responding to protect my life. And now, a woman has lost her life because of this despicable act.” – Greene
Rep. Greene expressed being “heartsick” over the fatal accident and strongly criticized the swatting incidents she has experienced since joining Congress in 2021. In a bold statement, she asserted that the person responsible for the bomb threat has “committed murder,” emphasizing the severe consequences of such threats.
Investigation and Broader Implications
After ruling out immediate danger, the investigation was handed over to the FBI, which is now working closely with state and local partners. The bureau remains vigilant but has not provided further details due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. The U.S. Capitol Police have also refrained from commenting on the incident.
“We have no further information at this time, as it is an ongoing investigation. The FBI remains vigilant and continues to work closely with our state and local partners to mitigate threats to the public, including threats to specific persons.” – FBI
This threat against Rep. Greene is not an isolated incident but part of a concerning trend of threats against members of Congress. Recently, other lawmakers, including Democratic Rep. Lori Trahan, have also been targets of similar threats. These incidents highlight the increasing security challenges faced by elected officials and the strain placed on law enforcement agencies tasked with their protection.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to determine the credibility of the threat and ensure the safety of Rep. Greene and other potential targets. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of political threats and the importance of maintaining vigilance in an increasingly volatile political climate.
Sources:
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene is the latest lawmaker targeted by a bomb threat
- Bomb Threat at Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Home Leads To Fatal Car Accident
- Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene claims foreign bomb threat targeted her Georgia home: ‘For Palestine’