- Suspect Flees Scene
- Donald Henson of Penn Hills identified as perpetrator
- FBI calls incident an “act of terror”
Pittsburgh, September 17, 2025 (Agencies): A man rammed his vehicle into the entrance gate of the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office early Wednesday morning in what federal authorities have described as a targeted act of terror against the agency.
The incident occurred at 2:40 a.m. local time along East Carson Street, according to FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher Giordano. The suspect, identified as Donald Henson, a resident of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, reportedly exited his white Toyota sedan, retrieved an American flag, and placed it on the damaged gate before fleeing the scene on foot.
No injuries were reported, but the FBI has launched a manhunt for Henson, who is considered potentially dangerous. Authorities noted that he may have a history of mental health issues and is believed to be a former military member.
Images from the scene show the vehicle with its door ajar in front of a bent metal gate near the security checkpoint. Witnesses reported hearing screeching tires, followed by the suspect yelling and walking away calmly.
The FBI confirmed that Henson had visited the field office weeks earlier to file a complaint that “didn’t make a whole lot of sense.” After reviewing the matter, agents informed him that no federal crime had been committed.
Investigators are examining messages scrawled on the vehicle, some of which reportedly contain vulgar language and references to suicide. A bomb squad was deployed to inspect the car for potential threats.
“This was a targeted attack on this building,” Giordano stated. “Thankfully, no one was hurt, but we are going to exhaust every ability we have under federal law to find, apprehend, and prosecute this subject to the fullest extent”.
The FBI has urged the public to report any information regarding Henson’s whereabouts by contacting 911, 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submitting tips via tips.fbi.gov.