Federal authorities in Dallas have charged a second individual for operating a drone in restricted airspace near AT&T Stadium during the FIFA World Cup. Cristobal Torres Alvarez, a 40-year-old Mexican national, was taken into custody in Arlington on June 27, according to a federal criminal complaint filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Dallas.
Alvarez is accused of operating as an airman without the required certificate. The charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison if he is convicted. He remains in custody while awaiting trial. Dallas is located approximately 12 miles south of Richardson.
The Federal Aviation Administration established a three-hour restricted airspace window before and after each World Cup match at the stadium. On the evening of June 27, an FBI agent monitoring the area observed a drone entering the prohibited zone. At the time, Argentina was scheduled to play Jordan in their final group stage match later that night.
Investigators located Alvarez at a residence in Arlington. Prosecutors state that Alvarez admitted to owning the aircraft, flying it near the stadium, and lacking the necessary FAA licenses for such operations. U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould emphasized that operators have a legal duty to understand flight restrictions, particularly over the stadium and Fan Fest areas during the tournament.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock stated that federal partners will continue to identify and pursue drone operators who violate Temporary Flight Restrictions. The agency aims to ensure safety for all participants and attendees at the 2026 World Cup events.