Steven Duenas arrested for allegedly plotting attack on LA Jewish preschool

Steven Carlos Duenas, 51, was arrested by the FBI on October 2 following allegations that he plotted a “mass incident” targeting a Jewish preschool in Los Feliz, Los Angeles.

Federal prosecutors allege that Duenas made antisemitic threats on social media and possessed components intended for making Molotov cocktails. According to court documents, Duenas used his X account to post images of what appeared to be incendiary devices alongside antisemitic rhetoric. One post featured a Molotov cocktail in front of footage of the burning World Trade Center, while another video showed ingredients for such devices.

The intended target was identified as Jems Pre School. Prosecutors state that Duenas’ social media activity included various antisemitic posts and references to participating in conflict through the use of these devices.