DAYTONA BEACH, Florida — Law enforcement officers arrested Adrian Morales, a Daytona Beach man, Saturday evening at the Icon One Daytona apartment complex, steps from Daytona International Speedway. The arrest came hours after Morales shared a video online showing him firing an AR-15 rifle into a lake while voicing ominous threats.

In the footage, Morales states, ‘this is what’s in store.’ Deputies from the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office linked the post to his history of threats against NASCAR executives. His location raised alarms, given the complex’s position right across from the speedway hosting Sunday’s Daytona 500.

“Morales’ proximity to the Speedway was concerning due to past grievances and aggressive messages he left for a NASCAR executive,” the sheriff’s office stated in a social media post. The video’s new threats targeted another individual but also referenced disputes with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, the DEA and the FBI.

Detectives recovered the AR-15 featured in the video, along with multiple rounds of ammunition, from Morales’ vehicle in the apartment complex parking lot. The Daytona 500, NASCAR’s season-opening race, drew over 100,000 fans to the 2.5-mile track without incident on Sunday.

The arrest prevented potential disruption at the high-profile event. Icon One Daytona sits amid a busy area that includes NASCAR’s headquarters building next door and the speedway opposite. During race weekend, the zone teems with visitors, teams and media.

Sheriff’s office investigators acted swiftly after the video surfaced online. Morales faces charges related to the threats, though specific counts were not detailed in the initial release. Volusia County deputies emphasized their vigilance ahead of major events like the Daytona 500, which attracts global attention.

Past threats against large gatherings have prompted similar rapid responses. Just days earlier in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, authorities addressed a separate incident involving potential violence at a public event. Officials rarely publicize every tip received, but this case stood out due to Morales’ location and weaponry.

The speedway’s security teams coordinate closely with local law enforcement during race weeks. Sunday’s event proceeded smoothly, with drivers like William Byron and Joey Logano competing under clear skies. No further threats emerged, according to race organizers.

Morales, whose age was not immediately released, remained in custody Monday. The sheriff’s office continues its investigation into his prior communications with NASCAR officials and federal agencies. Daytona International Speedway officials declined immediate comment beyond praising law enforcement’s efforts.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood has overseen heightened security measures for the annual race since taking office. His department logged multiple threat assessments in the lead-up to the 2026 event. Deputies patrolled the area around the clock, blending into crowds at nearby One Daytona retail and dining spots.

The AR-15, a semi-automatic rifle, is common for target practice but drew scrutiny here amid the threatening language. Ammunition seized matched calibers shown in the video. Forensic analysis is underway, deputies said.

Local residents expressed relief on social media. One longtime area visitor noted the complex’s prime location makes it a hotspot during race season. “You never know who’s around,” the person wrote. NASCAR’s presence amplifies risks, officials acknowledged.

The Daytona 500 crowns the series champion from the prior year in a 500-mile spectacle. This year’s edition featured intense competition, with no on-track interruptions. Law enforcement’s proactive arrest underscored ongoing challenges at mass events nationwide.