Stolen School Bus Triggers Investigation and Safety Worries

Authorities are investigating a case in New Jersey where a Muslim migrant admitted to stealing a school bus, raising significant safety concerns.

At a Glance

A Saudi Arabian man, Bader Alzahrani, admitted to transporting a stolen school bus across state lines.
On January 17, 2023, the school bus was reported stolen from Livingston, New Jersey.
FBI, Joint Terrorism Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, among others, are involved in the investigation.
Journals found with Alzahrani contained jihad threats and derogatory remarks about Jewish people and police officers.

Incident Details and Arrest

A Saudi Arabian man, Bader Alzahrani, admitted to transporting a stolen school bus across state lines. Alzahrani, 24, pleaded guilty to the federal charge of interstate transportation of a stolen vehicle. This incident began with a break-in on January 15, 2023, at an unoccupied home in Livingston, New Jersey. A Saudi Arabian passport belonging to Alzahrani was found in a backpack at the site.

On January 17, 2023, a school bus was reported stolen from a parking lot near the break-in location. Authorities located Alzahrani in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, and took him into custody. Keys to the stolen bus were found on him. This case has brought significant attention from multiple agencies, including the FBI and other law enforcement bodies.

Muslim Migrant With Journals Vowing ‘Jihad’ Admits to Stealing New Jersey School Bus –
https://t.co/RpnRJYAZcN

— Robert Spencer (@jihadwatchRS) August 20, 2024

Legal Proceedings

The charge against Alzahrani carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2024. This investigation involves multiple agencies, showcasing the importance of collaboration in tackling such complex issues. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the developments in this case.

“The count of possession of a stolen vehicle is punishable by a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and carries a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 9, 2024.” – Department of Justice – District of NJ

Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Levin is prosecuting the case. He emphasized the significance of the public safety concerns arising from this incident. This legal proceeding is indicative of the seriousness with which authorities are taking this case.

Muslim Migrant With Journals Vowing ‘Jihad’ Admits to Stealing New Jersey School Bushttps://t.co/m2UaOlI4nO

— PJ Media (@PJMedia_com) August 19, 2024

Security and Public Safety Concerns

The journals found with Alzahrani included phrases promoting violence and jihad. The investigation revealed entries like, “Why didn’t you slaughter the police officer who threw the Quran?” and “Destruction of the new world and the earth will be destroyed from all sides.” Such extremist content underscores the potential threat to public safety.

Alzahrani entered the U.S. on a student visa and attended an unidentified university but left the school in October 2022 and was reported missing. Authorities are looking deeper into his background to better understand his motives and previous activities. The collaboration among various law enforcement agencies proves essential in ensuring public safety and the timely resolution of such cases.