WASHINGTON — Five men have been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged plot to attack a UFC event held on the White House grounds, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, which announced the charges on Tuesday following a multi-state investigation by federal law enforcement agencies.
The Justice Department said the suspects were accused of planning an attack targeting government officials and attendees at the UFC Freedom 250 event, which took place on the White House South Lawn on June 14 as part of celebrations linked to the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence and President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. The defendants were arrested in Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska and California, according to court documents and federal prosecutors.
Federal authorities said the FBI became aware of a potential threat on June 10 and launched an investigation that uncovered communications among alleged conspirators discussing the use of explosive-laden drones and firearms. Court filings allege the group intended to create panic among spectators and target individuals attending the event. The allegations have not been tested in court.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the arrests prevented the alleged plan from being carried out.
“The FBI, our law enforcement partners and our U.S. Attorneys did what they do every day to make America safe through quick response and vigilance in investigating, disrupting, and dismantling this alleged plan before it could be carried out,” Blanche said in a Justice Department statement.
According to prosecutors, the defendants include Tycen Proper of Ohio, Bryan Omar Roa and Michael Alan Thomas of California, Daniel Eskridge of Missouri and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez of Nebraska. They face federal charges that include conspiracy-related offenses and attempted attacks against government officials. Defense attorneys for the accused were not immediately identified in court records reviewed by news organizations.
FBI Director Kash Patel said federal agents and partner agencies acted quickly after learning of the alleged threat. The Secret Service, which was responsible for security at the event, said it worked closely with investigators throughout the operation.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and could involve additional individuals. Court documents cited by prosecutors refer to a broader group of participants who allegedly communicated through encrypted messaging platforms, though details remain unclear.
No injuries were reported, and the UFC event proceeded as scheduled. Federal officials said security measures around the White House and other high-profile venues remain under review as investigators continue examining the alleged conspiracy.
