Why did the FBI take charge after the ATF raid on the Branch Davidian compound?

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Waco siege — Branch Davidian Flames engulfing the Branch Davidian compound near Waco, Texas, ending a standoff with federal agents, April 19, 1993.

The FBI took charge of the situation following the initial ATF raid on February 28, 1993, because the operation had escalated into a violent, prolonged standoff.12

During the initial attempt by the ATF to execute search and arrest warrants at the Branch Davidian compound, a two-hour gun battle occurred that resulted in the deaths of four federal agents and six members of the group. Following this deadly confrontation, the mission transitioned from a tactical raid into a 51-day siege, necessitating the involvement of FBI hostage negotiators and specialized resources to manage the crisis.12