Federal authorities say they have disrupted a multi state plot to attack a major UFC event held at the White House after an investigation that began with a mother’s call to local police about her son’s increasingly troubling behavior.
The alleged conspiracy centered on a plan to target attendees at the UFC Freedom 250 event on the White House South Lawn, where President Donald Trump was present as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. According to federal court filings, investigators believe the suspects intended to use explosive drones and sniper teams in an effort to cause mass casualties and spark broader political unrest.
At the center of the case is 19 year old Tycen Proper of Danville, Ohio. Federal prosecutors allege Proper was one of the group’s leaders and had discussed plans to launch a violent attack designed to trigger what investigators described as a revolutionary uprising against the U.S. government and economic system.
Authorities say the investigation began on June 10 after Proper’s mother contacted local law enforcement, expressing concern about her son’s recent conduct. According to court documents, she reported that he had purchased firearms, ammunition, ballistic protection equipment, camping supplies, and other tactical gear. She also raised concerns about his online activity, including interactions with extremist groups and increasingly violent statements.
Proper was later interviewed by federal investigators and allegedly admitted involvement in planning an attack. Court records indicate the plot called for drones carrying explosives to strike areas near the event venue. As attendees evacuated, additional conspirators were expected to position themselves along potential escape routes and target selected individuals with rifles.
Federal investigators say the group discussed targeting elected officials and other high profile public figures. Court documents allege that encrypted communications included references to members of Congress, senior government officials, and other prominent political figures. Authorities have not disclosed evidence that any of the intended targets were aware of the alleged threat.
The FBI said it identified the plot several days before the event and launched a coordinated operation involving multiple states. At least four additional suspects have been arrested in California, Nebraska, and Missouri. Investigators believe the conspiracy involved a wider network of individuals who shared extremist accelerationist views and sought to destabilize American institutions through acts of violence.
According to the criminal complaint, federal agents infiltrated encrypted online chat groups where plans were allegedly discussed and refined. The investigation uncovered communications detailing surveillance activities, travel plans, weapons acquisition, and target selection.
Proper now faces several federal charges, including conspiracy against the United States, attempted murder of federal officers, firearms offenses, and other allegations connected to the alleged plot. He is being held without bond while the case proceeds through the federal court system.
Federal officials credited cooperation between local police departments, the FBI, the Department of Justice, and other agencies for preventing the attack. Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and additional arrests or charges may follow as evidence continues to be reviewed.
