The seven were acquitted and a mistrial was declared in Koresh's case (Find Law). By 1990, Koresh had become the leader of the Branch Davidians and legally changed his name (PBS).
On February 28th, ATF agents raided Branch Davidian compound searching for illegal weapons. Gunfight erupted killing 4 ATF agents and wounding 16 others. An undetermined number of Davidians were killed and injured. David Koresh was wounded. ATF agents withdrew to safety and prepared for a siege. FBI called in negotiators and the Hostage Rescue Team. On March 12th, electricity to the compound was cut off despite objections by some FBI negotiators. The FBI illuminated the compound with bright lights at night to increase the pressure. On March 18th several Davidians were allowed to leave, but Koresh said God wanted him to wait. The FBI played loud music on the night of March 21, and Koresh responded by saying no others would come out. On March 22nd, signs of discord between FBI negotiators and the tactical team started to intensify. On April 12th, a tear gas plan was proposed to Attorney General Janet Reno. High-level meetings to discuss the plan were held among Clinton administration officials. Reno rejected the plan, but agreed after she was assured that the children would not be harmed by the tear gas. On April 19th, the FBI negotiator phoned the Davidians to announce a siege. Armored vehicles began inserting tear gas into the compound. Davidians opened fire on armored vehicles. The vehicles then breached several areas of the building. Reno phoned President Clinton saying everything seemed to be going well and left for a conference. A portion of the roof of the collapsed, and shortly after, the right-rear wall collapsed. Fires then started at three or more locations. The FBI negotiator called on Koresh to lead the Davidians out safely. Minutes later the FBI heard "systemic gunfire" from the compound, convincing the FBI the Davidians were killing themselves or each other.
