On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, the FBI revealed it had foiled a deadly plot involving explosive drones and snipers targeting the UFC America 250 gala held at the White House gardens on Sunday, June 14, during Donald Trump’s birthday celebration. The event gathered around 4,000 spectators inside the venue and tens of thousands more nearby.

According to the FBI, the plan aimed to cause a massacre among top U.S. officials and ignite a revolution. Five suspects have been arrested so far, with dozens more identified as potential accomplices, some of whom remain at large.

FBI Director Kash Patel tweeted that on June 10, law enforcement agencies uncovered the threat involving individuals outside the National Capital Region. Thanks to swift multi-state operations, the planned attacks were stopped before they could unfold. Patel emphasized that while the outcome showcased excellent investigative work, such operations are routine for teams dedicated to protecting American lives.

President Donald Trump, currently attending the G7 summit in France, said on Tuesday he was unaware of the plot. “The attack I witnessed was from the fighters,” he told reporters.

Security was tight at the White House on Sunday, with local police, Maryland authorities, and the National Guard deployed. Access was highly restricted, but the fan zone was set up just over 100 meters from the octagon where the fights took place, allowing thousands to watch on giant screens.

Court documents reveal that 19-year-old Tycen Proper was arrested on Monday, June 15, in Ohio and faces four charges, including attempted murder of a federal agent and conspiracy against the United States. Proper admitted to planning the attack with others through a TikTok group called “Vanguard of the Old,” whose members claimed to want to “protect the U.S.” from what they saw as a dangerous path. They coordinated further via the encrypted messaging app Signal.

The conspirators intended to create confusion by staging protests near the event—several peaceful demonstrations against Trump did occur that day. Their plan involved launching small drones loaded with explosives over the north side of the UFC stadium, triggering evacuations. Then, armed members would ambush fleeing attendees and high-value targets, hoping to spark a revolution.

Matthew Quinn, Deputy Director of the Secret Service, confirmed some suspects remain at large and praised the agency’s leading role in the investigation. He criticized leaks and emphasized the ongoing nature of the operation, hinting at internal tensions with the FBI director.

This foiled attack underscores the complex security challenges facing large public events and highlights the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts to protect civil society and democratic institutions. For those living in or visiting the U.S., it’s a reminder of the vigilance required to safeguard freedoms amid rising political tensions.