Arizona man arrested for alleged terrorist threats against LGBTQ+ community

Austin Jay Curtis, 32, of Gilbert, Arizona, has been arrested and faces multiple felony charges, including stalking and making terrorist threats. Investigators allege that Curtis engaged in a campaign of harassment against a former high school classmate, leaving over 100 voicemails and contacting her via social media.

According to court records, Curtis allegedly threatened to “drive a U-Haul through a parade of homosexuals and start firing at everybody.” While authorities have not identified a specific target, the threats occurred around the time of the Phoenix Pride event.

The investigation escalated when Curtis reportedly arrived at the victim's residence, leaving items outside her home. While earlier messages had mentioned bombs, a bomb disposal team found no explosives; instead, officers discovered knives and other personal belongings. Curtis reportedly told investigators he left the knives so the woman could defend herself.