Five men have been arrested in connection with an alleged plot to carry out a mass-casualty attack during the UFC Freedom 250 event held on White House grounds. According to court records, the group initially connected through a TikTok community called "Vanguard of the Old" before moving discussions to encrypted messaging apps. Prosecutors claim the group developed plans to use explosive-laden drones to create chaos and target government officials and attendees as they evacuated.
The arrests took place in Ohio, California, Missouri, and Nebraska, with the group reportedly evolving from online discussions into operational planning. Court documents indicate that the alleged leader, identified as "Shepherd," coordinated planning across multiple states and organized members into a tiered structure with specific roles.
While prosecutors allege the group had developed operational plans, some officials, including Vice President JD Vance, have suggested that the conspiracy was not advanced enough to pose an imminent threat. The investigation began on June 10 after concerns were raised about one of the defendants, Tycen Proper, who allegedly expressed intentions to meet with other members and had purchased tactical gear.
Investigators found discussions about potential congressional targets and other political figures, with some members expressing anger about government corruption and U.S. support for Israel. The group's alleged plans were reportedly canceled two days before the event, following the initiation of the investigation. Authorities executed search warrants and made arrests over the weekend following the event.