An Alabama man was arrested after allegedly posting violent threats against synagogues and Jewish communities online, prompting a swift multi-agency response that may have prevented a major tragedy.

Authorities identified the suspect as 33-year-old Jeremy Wayne Shoemaker, who was taken into custody at his home in Clarke County following an investigation led by the FBI and local law enforcement. Inside the residence, officers discovered an assault rifle, body armor, and a suitcase filled with ammunition — evidence suggesting that Shoemaker was preparing for an armed confrontation.

Clarke County Sheriff DeWayne Smith confirmed that Shoemaker had expressed intent to “go down shooting” if police attempted to arrest him, further heightening the perceived threat level. The sheriff emphasized that the situation could have escalated into violence without the timely intervention of federal and state officers.

Shoemaker now faces a range of state and federal charges, including making terrorist threats, resisting arrest, and unlawful possession of firearms. The case is being treated as a potential hate crime due to the explicitly antisemitic nature of the online threats.

This arrest comes amid a rise in antisemitic incidents nationwide, with Jewish communities on high alert following multiple threats to synagogues and community centers in recent months. Law enforcement officials praised the collaborative effort between the FBI and Alabama agencies that helped prevent what could have been a devastating attack.

Shoemaker is currently being held on a $150,000 bond, with a preliminary court hearing scheduled for November 7.