The FBI and its law enforcement partners disrupted an alleged plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event in Washington, D.C., scheduled for June 16, 2026. Five individuals are in custody, and investigators have identified 23 people as part of a potential network of plotters. The alleged plan involved using explosive-laden drones to target buildings near the event, which would force a mass evacuation and direct crowds toward a pre-staged sniper team. A secondary plan involved storming the White House gate.
The FBI first learned of the threat on June 10 and secured probable cause for an arrest in Cincinnati, where one suspect was taken into custody. Investigators discovered Signal chats in which multiple individuals discussed attacking the UFC event. An initial review of one suspect’s iPhone revealed at least 23 Signal users discussing pre-operational activities.
Some suspects allegedly planned to travel to Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 to prepare for the attack. One suspect reportedly 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 quick actions of the FBI, the Department of Justice, and law enforcement partners in preventing the alleged attack. He noted that the operation demonstrated the FBI’s capability to respond rapidly to emerging threats.
The UFC Freedom 250 event was part of President Donald Trump's 80th birthday weekend and attracted approximately 4,300 attendees, including around 1,200 active-duty service members, with 14 fighters competing in the event.