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Terror trial to begin for man accused of plotting attack on Taylor Swift concert in Vienna
A 21-year-old man, Beran A., is going on trial in Austria for allegedly planning a terrorist attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna in August 2024. He was arrested on August 7, 2024 after a CIA tip-off, leading to the cancellation of three Vienna shows and the tightening of security around future events. A second 21-year-old, Arda K., is also on trial in Wiener Neustadt; prosecutors accuse them of IS ties and related offenses.
Why It Matters
The case underscores ongoing security concerns around large-scale public events and illustrates cross-border cooperation in terrorism investigations, including the role of intelligence tips and online activity linked to ISIS.
Timeline
7 Events
Trial begins in Wiener Neustadt for Beran A. and Arda K.
April 27, 2026
Beran A. and Arda K. go on trial in Wiener Neustadt, charged with terrorism and related offences; Beran A. is accused of planning and receiving IS training, attempting to purchase weapons and explosives, and declaring allegiance to Islamic State, while Arda K. is said to be part of an Islamic State cell and to have planned other attacks.
German teenager receives suspended sentence for aiding foiled attack
2025
Last year, a German teenager was given an 18-month suspended sentence for helping to prepare the foiled attack.
Eras Tour ends in December 2024
December 2024
The Eras Tour closed in December 2024.
Arrest of Beran A. on August 7, 2024
August 7, 2024
Beran A. was arrested in Wiener Neustadt, a day before the opening Taylor Swift concert in Vienna, following a CIA tip-off.
Cancellation of Taylor Swift Vienna concerts in August 2024
August 2024
All three sold-out Taylor Swift Vienna concerts at Ernst Happel Stadium were cancelled after the arrest.
Planning for attack started by July 21, 2024
July 21, 2024
Prosecutors say Beran A. started planning the attack at the latest by 21 July 2024.
Eras Tour kicks off in March 2023
March 2023
The Taylor Swift Eras Tour began in March 2023.