FBI foils alleged explosive drone plot targeting UFC Freedom 250 at the White House
(Courtesy : UFC)
Multi-state investigation reportedly prevented attack on historic UFC event
Federal authorities say they disrupted an alleged plot targeting UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, preventing what investigators described as a potentially deadly attack involving explosive-equipped drones, sniper teams, and coordinated assaults near the event venue.
According to officials who spoke to Fox News Digital, five people are currently in custody, while investigators have identified at least 23 individuals allegedly connected to a broader network involved in planning the operation.
The alleged scheme targeted UFC Freedom 250, a historic event held on the South Lawn of the White House as part of celebrations surrounding the 250th anniversary of the United States and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday weekend.
Officials claim the plot involved using explosive-laden drones to strike buildings near the event, triggering a mass evacuation. Authorities allege crowds would then have been funneled toward pre-positioned sniper teams before a “second wave” attempted to storm White House security gates.
Arrests made across multiple states as investigation expands for UFC Freedom 250 case
The FBI became aware of the threat on June 10 and quickly coordinated with federal and local law enforcement agencies to secure arrests and execute search operations across several states.
One of the first arrests occurred in Cincinnati, where authorities took 19-year-old Tycen Proper into custody. According to court documents, Proper allegedly spent approximately $3,000 of his graduation money purchasing firearms, ammunition, magazines, and tactical equipment.
Investigators claim he acquired an AR-style rifle, an American flag-painted bullpup rifle, plate carriers, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Authorities said Proper’s family voluntarily surrendered the equipment after concerns emerged.
Court filings also state that Proper’s father told investigators his son had quit his job to participate in what he described as “missions” and “recons” with people he met online. His mother reportedly contacted authorities after becoming concerned about recent firearm purchases and online communications.
Additional arrests included Bryan Omar Roa and Michael Alan Thomas in California, both of whom were charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Authorities also arrested Daniel K. Eskridge of Missouri and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez of Nebraska.
According to prosecutors, Alvarez allegedly operated under the online alias “Shepherd” and served as a key organizer. Court documents claim he used encrypted Signal chats to coordinate staging areas, sniper positions, drone deployment plans, communication protocols, and escape routes.
Investigators allege Alvarez encouraged participants to acquire additional drones capable of carrying explosives, writing: “As many and as deadly as we can get.”
Officials praise the rapid response that prevented a potential tragedy
The investigation reportedly spanned at least 12 FBI field offices and involved extensive analysis of encrypted Signal communications. Officials said an initial review uncovered discussions among at least 23 users regarding operational planning and preparations.
One suspect allegedly told investigators the intended targets included “capitalist elites,” “billionaires,” and politicians connected to donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the coordinated response on X, stating:
“Thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”
Patel added:
“We are built to detect, respond to, and bring to justice those who threaten the lives of American citizens — particularly during large gatherings like the historic UFC 250 fight.”
Former FBI agent Jason Pack described the allegations as “organized political violence with specific targets” and warned that the operation appeared to have advanced beyond online rhetoric into active planning.
Pack emphasized that family members raising concerns may have been critical to preventing the alleged attack, stating:
“That’s how this got stopped.”
Vice President JD Vance later addressed the incident on FOX & Friends, calling the allegations “very, very dark stuff” and urging political leaders across the spectrum to lower inflammatory rhetoric.
How many people have been arrested?
Officials stated that five individuals were in custody as part of the investigation, with authorities examining a broader network of 23 alleged participants.
What was the alleged target of the plot?
According to investigators, the alleged plot targeted UFC Freedom 250, which took place on the South Lawn of the White House.
How was the alleged plot discovered?
Authorities say the investigation began after concerns were raised by family members of one of the suspects, leading law enforcement to uncover alleged planning activities through encrypted communications and other evidence.
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.