WASHINGTON — The FBI, under the leadership of Director Kash Patel, announced Tuesday that it successfully disrupted a chilling alleged terror plot aimed at President Donald Trump's UFC Freedom 250 event held on the White House South Lawn this past weekend.
The high-profile mixed martial arts spectacle, which celebrated America's 250th anniversary and the president's 80th birthday, drew thousands of spectators, including Trump himself ringside, without any incidents thanks to swift law enforcement action.
According to Patel, the FBI became aware of the potential threat on June 10, just days before the June 14 event, after the mother of one suspect raised alarms about her son's disturbing online activities and recent weapons purchases. A multi-state operation involving multiple FBI field offices quickly swung into action, identifying a network of roughly 23-24 suspects communicating via TikTok and encrypted Signal chats.
At least five individuals are now in custody, with more arrests expected. Court documents detail a horrifying plan reportedly involving explosive-laden drones to strike nearby buildings and spark panic among the crowd, funneling attendees toward a pre-staged sniper team for targeted shootings, followed by a secondary wave attempting to storm a White House gate.
The suspects, described as holding anti-government, conspiratorial, and ultra-religious views with grievances over issues like government corruption, allegedly saw the attack as a way to "jumpstart a revolution." One named suspect, 19-year-old Tycen Proper of Knox County, Ohio, faces serious charges including conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, attempted murder of federal officials, and multiple firearms violations.
Proper allegedly admitted to investigators that he was involved in planning the coordinated assault and was identified as a team leader in the group, which called itself something like the "Vanguard of the Old." His family reportedly grew concerned after he used graduation money to buy an AR-style rifle, body armor, ammunition, and tactical gear, quit his job for a supposed "mission," and made concerning statements.
"Multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold," Patel stated, crediting the rapid response of the FBI, partners, and the Department of Justice.
The plotters' communications reportedly included reconnaissance plans, maps of the area, and discussions of high-value targets, including certain members of Congress. Weapons and other evidence were recovered during arrests in states including Ohio, Missouri, California, and Nebraska.
This latest success comes as a stark reminder of the persistent threats facing America from domestic radicals emboldened in recent years. Under President Trump's administration and with strong leadership at the FBI, federal authorities are once again prioritizing the protection of the American people and our symbols of freedom.
The UFC Freedom 250 event proceeded as a resounding success, showcasing American strength, resilience, and the fighting spirit that defines our nation. Thanks to the brave men and women in law enforcement, what could have been a national tragedy was prevented.
