FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Federal authorities have charged Alen Zheng, 20, and his sister Ann Mary Zheng, 27, following an alarming incident at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. Alen Zheng, who reportedly fled to China, faces multiple charges, including attempting to damage government property and unlawfully making a destructive device, relating to an explosive device discovered outside the base's gate on March 16. Meanwhile, Ann Mary Zheng has been charged with witness tampering and being an accessory after the fact in her brother's case. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the charges through social media, stating that while Ann is currently in custody, Alen remains at large. The suspicious package found at MacDill triggered an immediate investigation, especially critical given MacDill's role as a hub for U.S. Central Command overseeing military operations in volatile regions. In a separate yet related matter, a different individual was apprehended on charges of making threatening calls to the base; however, authorities have not linked him to the Zhengs. The incident contributes to increasing security concerns at military facilities across the nation amidst ongoing global tensions.
Charges Filed Against Siblings in MacDill Air Force Base Explosive Incident
Alen and Ann Mary Zheng face federal charges linked to a suspicious explosive device found at MacDill Air Force Base.
Federal charges have been filed against two siblings, Alen Zheng and Ann Mary Zheng, linked to an explosive device incident at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. Alen, who fled to China, is charged with serious offenses including attempting to damage government property, while Ann faces charges of witness tampering. The incident adds to heightened security at U.S. military bases amid ongoing international tensions.
