On February 28, 1993, a raid by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) on the Branch Davidian compound near Waco, Texas, led to a deadly gun battle. The raid aimed to investigate illegal weapons possession by the Branch Davidians, a Christian sect led by David Koresh, but it quickly spiraled out of control. The intense 45-minute shootout resulted in the deaths of four ATF agents and six members of the Branch Davidians.After the failed raid, the FBI took command, initiating a tense, seven-week standoff with the group. Despite negotiators’ efforts, the Branch Davidians, who were well-stocked on supplies, refused to surrender. On April 19, 1993, after Attorney General Janet Reno approved action, the FBI began inserting tear gas into the compound using vehicles and tanks. However, the group did not evacuate, and by mid-morning, the standoff descended into further tragedy.
Within hours of the tear gas operation, a massive fire broke out inside the compound. While nine Branch Davidians escaped, David Koresh and more than 80 others, including 22 children, perished in the blaze. Federal authorities claimed that the Branch Davidians set the fire themselves, supported by eyewitness and forensic evidence, though survivors alleged negligence or premeditation by the government. The FBI later admitted to using incendiary tear gas grenades, fueling criticism of the operation. The Waco siege remains one of the most controversial chapters in Texas history.
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Austin American Statesman Article on Raid
