Man Dies by Suicide After Attacking Nevada Power Substation

Dawson Maloney, 34, from Albany, New York, attempted to damage critical infrastructure before taking his own life, authorities say.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 34-year-old man named Dawson Maloney from Albany, New York, died by suicide after attempting to damage a power substation outside Boulder City, Nevada, on Thursday. Maloney rammed a vehicle into the substation while armed with explosives and weapons, prompting a response from local and federal law enforcement. He subsequently shot himself and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Why it matters

The incident, initially described as a potential act of terrorism, prompted a swift response and lockdown of the nearby Hoover Dam as a precautionary measure. Attacks on critical infrastructure can have widespread impacts, raising concerns about public safety and security.

The details

According to the Boulder City Police Department, Maloney deliberately rammed a vehicle into the power substation. He was armed with explosives and weapons at the time of the attack. Police responded and engaged Maloney, who then shot himself. Investigators have identified Maloney as the sole actor, but the motivation behind the attack remains under investigation.

  • On Thursday, Maloney attempted to damage the power substation outside Boulder City, Nevada.
  • Maloney was pronounced dead at the scene after shooting himself.

The players

Dawson Maloney

A 34-year-old man from Albany, New York, who died by suicide after attempting to damage a power substation in Boulder City, Nevada.

Boulder City Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and engaged with Maloney.

Federal Protective Service

The agency that confirmed the lockdown and subsequent reopening of the Hoover Dam as a precautionary measure.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency assisting local authorities with the ongoing investigation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The FBI field office in Las Vegas is assisting local authorities with the ongoing investigation, and officials from the power company have not yet released a timeline for full repairs to the damaged substation.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and the need for robust security measures to protect against potential acts of terrorism or vandalism. The investigation will likely focus on Maloney's background and motives to determine if there were any broader threats or connections to extremist groups.