It seemed like the Oregon militia wasn't going anywhere. After the group took over the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and refused to leave until their demands were met, things were deadlocked. The government was unwilling and unable to comply with their list of (often baffling) demands, and the militia showed no signs of leaving. For 24 days they hunkered down, arousing debate, curiosity, and no small amount of frustration from various organizations. The militia became a social media story, complete with amusing sex jokes and erotic fan fiction. But no one's laughing now, as the group lies in tatters after an intense and deadly altercation with the FBI. Here's what you need to know.

What Happened?

A few members of the militia came down with a case of cabin fever and decided to take a road trip. Their destination was a public meeting, where they would speak out against the government and explain the reasoning regarding their takeover of the Wildlife Refuge. While in transit, the group came to a traffic stop and ended up face-to-face with the FBI. Gunfire was exchanged, and in the end five people were arrested, and one was dead.

Who Was Killed?

There was one reported casualty of the gunfire: Robert 'LaVoy' Finnicum, the group's spokesperson. Already wildly different reports of his death are circulating. One maintains he fired on the FBI and they returned shots; the other (as stated by Finnicum's daughter) insists that he was surrendering when agents shot him down in cold blood. The FBI has not confirmed Finnicum's death, only saying that one of the militants was killed. Another was injured in the shooting, but was treated at a local hospital and released.

Who Was Arrested?

Pretty much everyone running the militia show: Ammon Bundy and his brother Ryan, as well as three other militants who were considered to be in charge of the whole show. Another three militants were arrested in a separate FBI sting later that day.

What Happens Now?

Well, that's where things get tricky. Those arrested will face federal felony charges for their time in the cabin at the wildlife reserve, but the FBI didn't manage to get everyone. There are still a solid number of militia members holed up in the cabin, refusing to leave even as authorities close in. A standoff may be imminent, especially with everyone running the show in custody.

What's Going On In The Cabin?



Actually you can see for yourself; one of the militants keeps putting livestreams on his YouTube channel and has been regularly updating the public on what's happening. It's a strange and surreal experience to be sure. But don't delay if you want to check it out; judging from the way the FBI is closing in, the militia's days of livestreaming from the cabin may be numbered.

Tags
FBI, Trending news