The Oklahoma City bombing occurred on April 19, 1995, when a truck filled with explosives was detonated outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people and injuring hundreds more. Timothy McVeigh, a Gulf War veteran, was identified as the primary suspect, and Terry Nichols was later found complicit in the plot. The attack was driven by McVeigh's animosity towards the federal government, particularly in response to events like the Waco Siege and the Ruby Ridge incident. The attack shocked the nation and raised awareness about domestic terrorism. Following the bombing, federal agents quickly moved to apprehend those responsible.On August 10, 1995, McVeigh and Nichols were indicted on multiple counts of murder and conspiracy to use a weapon of mass destruction. They faced the death penalty for their actions, which left scars on the community and brought to light the issues of homegrown terrorism in the United States. Additionally, Michael Fortier, a friend of McVeigh, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge, agreeing to testify against McVeigh and Nichols in exchange for a more lenient sentence. Fortier's cooperation was essential for the prosecution as it helped to elucidate the planning and execution of the bombing.The indictments initiated a lengthy legal process that would culminate in high-profile trials. McVeigh was eventually convicted and executed in 2001, while Nichols received a life sentence without parole. The ramifications of these events have left an enduring impact on U.S. legislation regarding domestic terrorism and emergency response protocols, raising critical discussions about national security and civil rights.