Oklahoma City 30 Years Later: Where are we now?

On April 19, 1995, the United States experienced the deadliest domestic terrorist attack in history. Carried out by Timothy McVeigh, a truck bomb ripped through Oklahoma City, destroying the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building and claiming 168 lives in the process, 19 of which were children. In the 30 years since the attack, the importance of understanding the evolving nature of domestic terrorism remains.

This virtual event with Retired FBI Special Agent William Teater and Retired FBI Special Agent and Master Bomb Technician Barry Black, moderated by Research Fellow Luke Baumgartner, reflected on the events of that day, honored the legacy of those lost, and engaged in a meaningful discussion about the lasting impact of domestic violent extremism.

On April 17, 2025, the Program on Extremism (PoE) at The George Washington University held a virtual panel discussion titled, “Oklahoma City 30 Years Later: Where are we now?”. Retired FBI Special Agent William Teater and Retired FBI Special Agent and Bomb Technician Barry Black joined PoE Research Fellow Luke Baumgartner to discuss the Oklahoma City Bombing. 

Black and Teater, drawing on their FBI experience, discussed Timothy McVeigh’s background. McVeigh grew up in upstate New York with an emotionally challenging childhood. His grandfather, a significant influence, introduced him to guns and survivalist beliefs. After serving in the U.S. Army, McVeigh, a quiet and disciplined loner, failed to join the Special Forces, which contributed to his growing disillusionment. His experience in the Gulf War further shifted his beliefs, leading to radical anti-government views. Influenced by The Turner Diaries, McVeigh, along with accomplices Terry Nichols and Michael Fortier, became more deeply involved in violent extremism.

On April 19, 1995, a massive explosion destroyed the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people. Teater explained that McVeigh and Nichols had prepared a getaway car, and that McVeigh parked the bomb-laden truck before fleeing. He was arrested shortly after for a traffic violation and concealed weapon. Black noted that investigators traced the truck back to McVeigh using a VIN found at the blast site. Reflecting on their experience on the ground, Teater, stationed five miles away, quickly responded, later investigating McVeigh’s military history. Black, also nearby, helped form the FBI’s Evidence Response Team and confirmed the attack was a vehicle-borne explosive.

Teater emphasized the large-scale investigation, with teams tracking thousands of leads, such as motel stays and phone cards used by McVeigh and Nichols. Black explained that the trial was moved to Denver to ensure fairness, given Oklahoma’s emotional ties to the bombing. McVeigh was found guilty in less than 24 hours, sentenced to death, and executed in 2001. Fortier and his wife testified in exchange for a plea deal and entered witness protection, while Nichols received a life sentence. Teater praised the community’s response, and Black highlighted the generosity, calling it the start of the "Oklahoma Standard."

During the Q&A, Teater reflected on the lasting impact of McVeigh’s actions, observing that modern domestic violent extremists often mirror McVeigh in their isolation, interpersonal struggles, and fixation on perceived injustice. The session concluded with thoughts on resilience, as Teater emphasized how their commitment to justice and preventing future tragedies helped them endure the emotional toll of the investigation.