Full Breakdown
FBI Intervenes to Thwart Threat Against Black Preschoolers in North Carolina
9/6/2025, 12:14:54 AM
Arrest of Zachary Charles Newell
On September 1, 2023, the Carteret County Sheriff's Office arrested 25-year-old Zachary Charles Newell from Newport, North Carolina, for allegedly communicating threats of mass violence against an unspecified preschool that primarily serves Black children. The arrest followed a notification from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) regarding Newell's online threats, which were described as extremely violent and hate-motivated. He was charged with Communicating a Threat of Mass Violence on Educational Property and initially released on a $30,000 bond. However, he was later taken into federal custody on September 2, facing additional charges of interstate threat to kidnap or injure another person.
Details of the Threat
Newell reportedly posted threats on YouTube under the username "CommentatorsHateMe," expressing intentions to "shoot up" a preschool and kill 20 Black children. These posts were flagged by Google to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center, prompting a swift investigation. Investigators linked the threatening account to Newell through his email, phone number, and physical address, ultimately leading to his arrest at home. During the investigation, Newell allegedly admitted to making the threats, which included racist slurs and violent intentions.
Official Responses
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Threats of violence against children are beyond unacceptable acts of cowardice." He praised the collaborative efforts of local law enforcement and the FBI in ensuring Newell's arrest before he could act on his threats. The Carteret County Sheriff's Office confirmed that there was no active threat to any educational facilities in the area, as Newell did not specify any particular preschool in his communications.
Community Safety Assurance
Authorities have reassured the community that children, staff, and schools in Carteret County are safe. Sheriff Asa Buck stated, "Our office worked swiftly to take this subject into custody... Suspects who make these types of comments will be dealt with as severely as the law allows." The Sheriff's Office has urged the public to report any threats or suspicious activities immediately.
Criticism & Opposition
While the authorities acted quickly, some community members have expressed concerns about the prevalence of hate speech and threats against marginalized groups. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for more robust measures to prevent such threats and ensure the safety of vulnerable populations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Threats of violence against children are beyond unacceptable acts of cowardice,” — Kash Patel, FBI Director
- “Our office worked swiftly to take this subject into custody and worked with the [FBI] to subsequently have him placed into federal custody.” — Asa Buck, Carteret County Sheriff
Conclusion
The arrest of Zachary Charles Newell highlights the critical role of law enforcement and community vigilance in addressing threats of violence, particularly against children. As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of educational environments and protecting the community from hate-driven violence.
