A former military member with mental health issues launched what FBI officials are calling an “act of terror” against their Pittsburgh field office, raising serious questions about federal security protocols and veteran support systems.
Story Snapshot
- Donald Henson rammed his vehicle into FBI Pittsburgh office gate at 2:40 a.m., threw American flag, and fled
- FBI Special Agent Christopher Giordano classified the incident as a targeted “act of terror” against federal law enforcement
- Henson, a veteran with documented mental health issues, had previously visited the office with nonsensical complaints
- Suspect was apprehended hours later with no injuries reported; federal charges are pending
Veteran’s Pre-Dawn Attack Targets Federal Law Enforcement
Donald Henson of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, deliberately crashed his white Toyota sedan into the security gate of the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office at 2:40 a.m. on September 17, 2025. After the collision, Henson exited his vehicle, threw an American flag over the damaged gate, and fled on foot into the darkness. The FBI bomb squad immediately secured the scene and cleared the vehicle, finding no explosives. This brazen attack on a federal facility demonstrates the vulnerability of government installations to determined individuals.
NEW: A driver rammed a car into the FBI’s Pittsburgh field office in what authorities call an “act of terror.” The suspect then threw an American flag over the gate before fleeing on foot.
Officials identified the suspect as 49-year-old Donald Henson of Penn Hills, Pa. He was… pic.twitter.com/eiy3FnoGWK
— Fox News (@FoxNews) September 17, 2025
FBI Labels Incident Targeted Act of Terror
FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Giordano publicly declared the incident a targeted “act of terror” against federal law enforcement. The designation carries serious legal implications and reflects the FBI’s view that this was not a random act but a deliberate assault on federal authority. Giordano emphasized that the attack was specifically aimed at the FBI facility, distinguishing it from accidents or general criminal activity. This classification will likely influence the severity of federal charges pursued against Henson.
Suspect’s Mental Health History Raises Red Flags
Henson, a former military member, had documented mental health issues and previous contact with the FBI Pittsburgh office. Weeks before the attack, he visited the facility to file what FBI officials described as a “nonsensical complaint” that provided no basis for federal action. His military background combined with untreated mental health problems created a dangerous combination that the system failed to adequately address. The incident highlights gaps in support systems for veterans struggling with psychological issues.
Swift Apprehension Follows Intensive Manhunt
The FBI quickly identified Henson as the suspect and launched an immediate manhunt with local law enforcement assistance. Within hours of the attack, authorities successfully apprehended Henson without incident. The rapid response demonstrated effective coordination between federal and local agencies in pursuing threats against government facilities. Federal prosecutors are now working with the FBI to determine appropriate charges, which could include terrorism-related offenses given the FBI’s classification of the incident.
The case raises troubling questions about how federal agencies handle individuals with grievances and mental health issues. While the FBI had no legal grounds to act on Henson’s previous complaint, the incident exposes potential weaknesses in threat assessment protocols. This attack on federal law enforcement undermines public safety and highlights the need for better mental health resources for veterans while maintaining strong security at government facilities.
Sources:
FBI Hunts Man After Car Rams Pittsburgh Office Gate
Man Rams Gate Of FBI Field Office In ‘Act Of Terror,’ Official Says
FBI Pittsburgh office incident: Who is Donald Henson, the man accused of act of terror against the FBI
