North carolina man admits murder-for-hire plot in philly
A Plymouth, North Carolina man has confessed to orchestrating a chilling murder-for-hire scheme targeting two individuals in the Philadelphia area, federal authorities announced this week. Xin Guang Guo, 48, faces up to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to using interstate commerce facilities to plot the killings, a case that unfolded with an elaborate sting operation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The scheme unravels: a confidential source’s tip
The investigation began on September 30, 2025, when the ATF received a tip from a confidential informant operating in North Philadelphia. This individual, known to Guo through neighborhood connections, alleged that Guo was offering a staggering $30,000 to eliminate his former business partner and the partner's romantic companion. Text message exchanges recovered by investigators confirmed the ominous arrangement, detailing Guo's intentions and providing crucial information about the planned victims.
What’s particularly noteworthy is Guo’s business in North Philadelphia, described in court documents as involving “gambling machines.” The alleged motive, while not officially detailed, points to a possible dispute over this enterprise. During monitored phone calls, Guo explicitly stated his willingness to pay $15,000 for each successful assassination, a sum that underscored the seriousness of his intent.
The Sting: An Undercover Agent Steps In Guo’s plan moved toward execution on October 6 when he agreed to meet with what he believed was a hitman in Philadelphia. During this encounter, he handed over $2,500, intended for the purchase of a firearm. Unbeknownst to Guo, the supposed hitman was an ATF agent working undercover. Guo's demand for photographic proof of the victims' deaths before releasing the remaining funds revealed a disturbing level of control and detachment.
The ATF swiftly arrested Guo immediately following the exchange, effectively halting the plot before any harm could be inflicted. His guilty plea now paves the way for sentencing on July 15, where he will face the full weight of federal law. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of organized crime and the dedication of law enforcement in preventing violent acts.