FBI Thwarts Plot Targeting White House UFC Event, Multiple in Custody

Jun 16, 2026

The FBI thwarted a plot targeting a UFC event at the White House on June 14, 2026, which coincided with President Trump's 80th birthday. Multiple individuals are in custody following a multi-state operation. The alleged plan involved using explosive-laden drones to create panic and drive crowds toward a sniper team, with a second wave of attackers planning to storm the White House gate. The Secret Service confirmed its role in the investigation.

FBI plot disruption

▪The FBI announced on June 16, 2026, that it had thwarted a potential threat to a UFC event in Washington, D.C.
▪The FBI and its law enforcement partners became aware of the potential threat on June 10, 2026.
▪Multiple individuals are in custody following a multi-state operation to stop the alleged plot.
▪A suspect connected to the plot was reportedly taken into custody in Cincinnati in the week prior to June 16, 2026.
▪According to Fox News, five people were in custody and 23 were identified as part of a network of plotters.

Attack plan details

▪The plotters allegedly aimed to use the drones to create panic and drive fleeing crowds toward a sniper team.
▪A "second wave" of attackers allegedly planned to storm the White House gate after the initial attack.
▪The alleged plot involved using explosive-laden drones to strike buildings near the event.

White House UFC event

▪The targeted event was the UFC Freedom 250, held on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14, 2026.
▪President Donald Trump and his family members were in attendance at the UFC event.

Trump birthday celebration

▪While at the G7 summit in France, President Donald Trump said he had not heard about the planned attack.
▪The UFC event coincided with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday and celebrations for the U.S.'s 250th anniversary.

Law enforcement response

▪Vice President JD Vance stated that such a plot would require "serious funding" and "serious coordination."
▪The Secret Service confirmed it worked with the FBI on the investigation into the plot.
▪Secret Service Director Sean Curran said formal comments on the case will be made available in court filings.