In February, 1993, exiled cult members began claiming publicly that Koresh had physically abused children in the compound and committed statutory rape by taking underage brides.
Allegations surfaced that Koresh was stockpiling illegal weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition, as well as operating a methamphetamine laboratory.
After reports of automatic gunfire coming from the compound, the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) issued warrants for Koresh and senior cult members on firearms charges.
On Sunday, February 28, 1993, ATF agents, their blood type written on their arms or neck, approached the site, hiding inside cattle trucks pulled by pick-up trucks.
Tipped off, Koresh and his cohorts began firing.
Four ATF agents were killed, 16 wounded and five Branch Davidians died before a ceasefire.
That night, Koresh gave a phone interview with CNN and made a broadcast to a local radio station.
An FBI deal for a peaceful surrender collapsed when Koresh announced God had told him to stay in the compound.
Over the next seven weeks, Koresh agreed to release 35 people, including 14 children, but 78 people remained inside.
As the siege continued, Koresh released video taped interviews and negotiated for more time, allegedly to write religious documents needed before his surrender.
Then, after being told that conditions were deteriorating and children were being abused inside the compound, newly-appointed U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno approved FBI plans to mount an assault.