BAY MINETTE, Ala. — A Gulf Coast man with alleged ties to a militia loyal to former President Donald Trump was shot and killed by the FBI during an arrest operation in Baldwin County. Authorities identified the man as Alexander Randles, who was reportedly plotting to target high-ranking U.S. officials, including Attorney General Merrick Garland, whom he believed to be “corrupt.”
Court documents reveal Randles had written letters addressed to Trump, Rep. Matt Gaetz, and Elon Musk and was attempting to form a militia to support what he saw as a patriotic effort to restore order. His plans allegedly included using armed force against government officials.
The FBI confirmed the fatal shooting occurred as agents attempted to arrest Randles. No additional details about the confrontation have been released.
Randles’ activities come as militias across the United States have increasingly aligned with Trump’s political rhetoric, including his promises to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Trump’s policies and statements have often been interpreted by these groups as a call to action, fueling mobilization efforts among militia members.
Militias often distrust federal authorities, viewing them as corrupt and overly intrusive. However, they occasionally align with federal actions that they believe align with constitutional values, particularly on issues like immigration and national defense.
The shooting in Alabama underscores the growing tensions between federal authorities and armed civilian groups who interpret political rhetoric as justification for violent action. Investigations into Randles’ activities and possible connections to other groups are ongoing.