Loxahatchee Man Accused of Planning Mass Shootings at Multiple Locations: Weapons Cache, Law Enforcement Gear Seized in Alarming Case
LOXAHATCHEE, FL — April 30, 2025 — A 22-year-old man from Loxahatchee, Florida, is facing a series of serious charges after the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) arrested him for allegedly threatening mass shootings at multiple locations, impersonating law enforcement, and amassing an arsenal of weapons and tactical gear.
Damien Allen was taken into custody Tuesday night following a tip that originated from the FBI’s Guardian system—a platform designed to alert law enforcement about potential threats, similar to Crime Stoppers. The tip led PBSO to uncover what investigators have called a “deeply disturbing” and potentially imminent threat involving at least seven targeted locations.
“Set Up for War”: The Scope of the Threat
According to a probable cause affidavit, Damien Allen was actively communicating threats of mass violence across various online platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Discord. Investigators say his content included alarming rhetoric about conducting mass shootings, posing as law enforcement, and idolizing individuals involved in violent acts.
One particularly troubling discovery was Allen’s past online interaction with Natalie Rupnow, the 15-year-old girl who carried out a school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin on December 17, 2024, resulting in multiple casualties. The nature of their communication and whether it contributed to her radicalization or planning remains under investigation.
Social Media Clues and Law Enforcement Impersonation
Authorities noted that Allen’s threatening behavior was not limited to verbal or written threats. A video posted by Allen on Instagram in October 2022 showed him sitting inside a Ford Crown Victoria, a vehicle commonly used by law enforcement, with what appeared to be an authentic Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office laptop mounted inside.
In that footage, Allen appeared to mimic the presence and authority of an officer, raising immediate concerns about his access to official-looking gear and vehicles.
Stash of Weapons and Tactical Equipment Recovered
The execution of a search warrant at Allen’s Loxahatchee residence led to a chilling discovery. Among the items seized:
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18 firearms, including assault rifles and handguns
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12,000+ rounds of ammunition
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1 Taser and 15 Airsoft guns
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Two-way radios capable of mimicking law enforcement communications
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Ballistic vests and helmets
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Law enforcement credentials
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Active-duty military (Army, FBI, Marine, Army Ranger) uniforms
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Self-made Army training certificates
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Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office badges
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A 3D-printed body camera
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Materials bearing Nazi insignia
The volume and variety of gear led PBSO officials to describe Allen as “set up for war,” a phrase underscoring the seriousness of what could have unfolded without public intervention.
Legal Status of Weapons Under Review
Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said that authorities are still investigating whether Allen legally obtained the firearms and ammunition, a critical aspect that could lead to additional federal charges.
The weapons’ origins—some of which may be ghost guns or acquired through online parts kits—are being examined by ATF agents in coordination with PBSO and the FBI.
Public Tip Credited with Preventing Potential Tragedy
Sheriff Bradshaw praised the public for submitting the tip that ultimately prevented what law enforcement fears could have been a multi-location mass shooting event:
“We cannot overstate how important it is for the public to speak up. This tip potentially saved dozens, if not hundreds, of lives. This young man had the intent, the tools, and the disturbing ideology to carry out something horrific.”
Ongoing Investigation and Mental Health Evaluation
Allen is currently being held in the Palm Beach County Jail and faces multiple charges including:
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Making written threats to conduct a mass shooting
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Impersonating a law enforcement officer
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Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (pending weapon legality)
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Possession of false government identification
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Possession of materials for criminal use
A forensic psychological evaluation is expected to be part of the investigation to determine Allen’s mental state and capacity.
Community on Alert
Local officials and residents expressed both relief and concern in the wake of the arrest. Law enforcement agencies are reminding parents, educators, and the community to remain vigilant—especially in monitoring social media activity.
The case serves as a sobering reminder of the power of public awareness and the dangers of online radicalization.