Ohio Man Charged for Threatening to Kill VP Vance

Accused of making death threat against US Vice President JD Vance during Ohio visit

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 33-year-old man from Toledo, Ohio named Shannon Mathre has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly threatening to kill U.S. Vice President JD Vance during his visit to the Ohio region in January. Mathre was arrested by U.S. Secret Service agents and also faces charges related to possession of child sexual abuse materials discovered during the investigation.

Why it matters

Threats of political violence have become an increasing concern in the U.S. in recent years, with experts warning about the dangers of a polarized political climate. This case highlights the seriousness with which authorities are treating such threats, especially against high-ranking officials like the Vice President.

The details

According to the indictment, Mathre allegedly stated, "I am going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him." Federal agents discovered multiple files of child sexual abuse materials in Mathre's possession while investigating the alleged threats.

  • Mathre was arrested by U.S. Secret Service agents on Friday, February 6, 2026.
  • Mathre is scheduled to appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Ohio on February 11, 2026 for a detention hearing.

The players

Shannon Mathre

A 33-year-old man from Toledo, Ohio who has been indicted for allegedly threatening to kill U.S. Vice President JD Vance.

JD Vance

The current U.S. Vice President who was allegedly threatened by Mathre during a visit to the Ohio region in January 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I am going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him.”

— Shannon Mathre (Justice Department)

What’s next

Mathre will appear before a U.S. Magistrate Judge on February 11, 2026 for a detention hearing to determine if he will be held in custody pending trial.

The takeaway

This case underscores the heightened concerns around political violence and threats against public officials in the U.S. today. Authorities are taking such threats extremely seriously and will pursue federal charges against those who make credible threats, even if no actual attack occurs.