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
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