Two young men have been accused of making multiple terroristic threats against popular fast-food chains in Illinois. Police say the men phoned in false warnings of active shooters, which caused fear, panic, and even forced some businesses to close early.
Who Are the Suspects?
The men have been identified as Austin Blair and Jarrett Maki, both 25 years old. According to the East Alton Police Department, they now face 11 felony counts each for making terroristic threats to several restaurants, including McDonald’s, Domino’s, Sonic, Taco Bell, and Casey’s.
What the Calls Allegedly Said
Court documents revealed disturbing details of the threatening phone calls:
On July 28, the men allegedly told Taco Bell staff: “I see a dude with a big gun walking toward your store.”
The same day, a McDonald’s and a Sonic were allegedly warned that a shooter was coming and “did not care if police were there.”
At a Casey’s in Wood River, employees were told: “There’s going to be an active shooter at your store in five to 10 minutes.”
On July 29, Domino’s in East Alton reportedly received a call threatening to “shoot up the store.”
More calls followed to the same McDonald’s, Sonic, and Domino’s locations through July 31.
After a brief pause, the threats allegedly started again:
On August 10, one caller reportedly threatened Domino’s workers with: “Blow their heads off.”
On August 21, the same Domino’s allegedly received another call about blowing up the building and shooting the staff.
On August 27, the suspects allegedly called the Runway Lounge in Bethalto, saying: “You ever had an assault rifle in your face?”
Police Investigation and Arrests
The threats triggered immediate fear and disruption. Several restaurants closed early to keep staff and customers safe.
East Alton police traced the threatening calls back to a local home and arrested Blair there. Their investigation later linked the case to Maki, who was living in Detroit but was eventually found and arrested in Madison, Illinois.
Court Proceedings and Consequences
Both Blair and Maki face 11 counts of making terroristic threats. Blair was released from custody pending a hearing on September 26. Maki, however, remains in Madison County Jail, with his court date set for October 3. Reports also confirm that Maki lost his job with the Detroit City Football Club after his arrest.
This case shows how fake threats can create real panic. While no actual shootings took place, the calls caused fear, forced businesses to shut down, and wasted police resources.
Authorities say the serious charges reflect how such actions are treated under the law. Both men now face the possibility of long prison sentences for what officials say were dangerous and reckless acts.
