FBI prevents potential attack on UFC event at the White House

On June 14, 2026, the FBI and partner agencies neutralized a security threat against the 'UFC Freedom 250' event held at the White House to celebrate President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. Officials reported that the plot allegedly involved the use of explosive-laden drones to strike buildings, trigger evacuations, and drive crowds toward a pre-positioned sniper team. Law enforcement became aware of the threat on June 10 and subsequently identified 23 individuals connected to a communications network on the Signal messaging app. By June 15, five suspects had been taken into custody. Reports indicate that some conspirators planned to gather in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on June 12 or 13 for final preparations. The event proceeded as scheduled on Sunday with approximately 4,300 attendees, including 1,200 active-duty military personnel. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the individuals involved were located outside of the National Capital Region.