Austrian Man Admits to Plotting Attack on Taylor Swift Concert in Vienna

A 21-year-old Austrian citizen identified as Beran A. pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges related to a foiled plot targeting a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, according to his defense attorney. The trial, held in Wiener Neustadt, follows allegations that Beran A. pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group and planned to attack concertgoers outside Ernst Happel Stadium in August 2024.

Authorities said Beran A. intended to use knives or homemade explosives to target crowds gathered for Swift’s performances, which were ultimately canceled by Austrian officials. Prosecutors allege he discussed acquiring weapons and making bombs with other members of the Islamic State group, and that bomb-making materials were found during a search of his apartment on August 7, 2024. The U.S. provided intelligence that contributed to the decision to cancel the concerts.

Beran A. faces up to 20 years in prison and has been in custody since August 2024. He is also on trial alongside Arda K. for allegedly planning simultaneous attacks in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, though he pleaded not guilty to those charges. Proceedings are scheduled to continue on May 12.