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The ATF planned a surprise raid on the Branch Davidian compound. Someone tipped
1993 Event

February 28

Waco Siege Begins: ATF Raids Branch Davidian Compound

The ATF planned a surprise raid on the Branch Davidian compound. Someone tipped off David Koresh. When 76 agents arrived, the Davidians were waiting with AR-15s. The firefight lasted two hours. Four agents dead, sixteen wounded. Five Davidians killed. The ATF had brought a cattle trailer full of gear for a victory photo. Instead they retreated and called the FBI. The siege would last 51 days and end with the compound in flames. Koresh had been tipped off by a local TV cameraman asking for directions.

February 28, 1993

33 years ago

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