Mexican national charged with flying drone over FIFA Fan Festival in Atlanta

A Mexican national who authorities say is unlawfully present in the United States faces federal charges after allegedly flying a drone over Centennial Olympic Park during the FIFA Fan Festival in Atlanta, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.

Lorenzo Rojas-Martinez, 37, was charged in a federal complaint filed June 15, 2026, with operating a drone in a temporary flight restricted zone and illegal reentry by a removed alien.

Federal agents allegedly observed Rojas-Martinez on June 12, 2026, operating a drone in restricted airspace near Centennial Olympic Park during the 2026 FIFA Fan Festival while standing in a nearby parking area and recording video of the event, according to the criminal complaint. After agents requested his identification and reviewed his driver’s license, they allegedly confirmed he was unlawfully present in the United States following two prior removals.

Rojas-Martinez has a prior conviction for cocaine distribution, according to the complaint.

U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said the case reflects coordinated efforts among federal and local law enforcement to protect public safety at major international events.

“Unauthorized drone operations in restricted airspace present a serious risk to public safety, particularly during major international events such as the FIFA World Cup,” Hertzberg said. “This enforcement action reflects the coordinated efforts of our federal and local partners to detect, disrupt, and deter unlawful activity that could endanger spectators, athletes, and first responders.”

FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Marlo Graham said the bureau’s Counter UAV Task Force has seized 21 drones, including the device allegedly operated by Rojas-Martinez.

“As these operators are putting the community at risk, our Ground Intercept Teams will continue to locate operators, seize drones, and pursue prosecution of those who violate the restricted airspace in place around FIFA World Cup activities,” Graham said.

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The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dash A. Cooper is prosecuting the case.

Prosecutors said the case is part of Operation Take Back America, a Justice Department initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration, eliminating cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protecting communities from violent crime.

The complaint contains only allegations. Rojas-Martinez is presumed innocent, and the government bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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