The FBI, along with its law enforcement partners, disrupted an alleged plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington, D.C. on June 16, 2026. Five individuals are in custody, and 23 others have been identified as part of a potential network of plotters. The plan reportedly involved using explosive-laden drones to target buildings near the event, causing a mass evacuation and directing crowds toward a pre-staged sniper team. A secondary attack was allegedly planned to storm the White House gate.
The FBI became aware of the threat on June 10 and secured probable cause for an arrest in Cincinnati, where one suspect was apprehended. Investigators discovered Signal chats in which multiple individuals discussed plans to attack the UFC event. An initial review of one suspect's iPhone revealed discussions among at least 23 Signal users about pre-operational activities.
Some suspects reportedly intended to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 to prepare for the attack. One suspect allegedly stated that the goal was to target "capitalist elites," "billionaires," or politicians associated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
The investigation involved at least 12 FBI field offices. FBI Director Kash Patel commended the rapid response of the FBI and its partners in preventing the alleged attack, stating that the operation demonstrated the FBI's capability to respond swiftly to emerging threats. The UFC Freedom 250 event was attended by approximately 4,300 people, including about 1,200 active-duty service members, as fighters competed in a wire-mesh cage on the South Lawn of the White House during President Donald Trump's 80th birthday weekend.