On June 17, 2026, the FBI announced that a plot to attack a UFC event at the White House had been foiled. Federal law enforcement officials made several arrests related to the investigation, which involved over two dozen suspects communicating via an encrypted chat. FBI Director Kash Patel publicly credited the FBI for the investigation, which surprised some federal officials who were still working to apprehend additional suspects. Reports indicated that some suspects had discussed using drones with explosives during the event, which was intended to celebrate America's 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump's 80th birthday.
Concerns were raised by law enforcement officials that Patel's announcement could jeopardize the ongoing investigation, as interviews were still being conducted. Despite these concerns, one official stated that five suspects were already in custody and that there was no ongoing threat to the community. The investigation began after a local mother reported her concerns about her son's behavior, leading to the involvement of the Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. The FBI and U.S. Secret Service later issued a joint statement emphasizing their collaborative efforts in the investigation.