FBI Foils Drone‑Based Attack Plan at White House UFC Event

Tue Jun 16 2026 16:12:41 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The FBI foils a planned drone attack on the White House UFC event, uncovering a multi‑state plot ahead of President Trump’s 80th birthday.

The FBI, under its director Kash Patel, announced that it had stopped a planned attack on the White House‑hosted UFC match held on Sunday in celebration of President Trump’s 80th birthday. The operation, described as multi‑state, involved suspects who allegedly intended to use explosive‑laden drones to strike nearby buildings and create a panic that could lure crowds toward a sniper team. Investigators seized Signal chats and detained several suspects, including one in Cincinnati, before the plot could materialize. The agency’s statement highlighted its readiness to prevent threats at large gatherings and called for continued vigilance amid heightened security protocols.

FBI Foils Drone‑Based Attack Plan at White House UFC Event

FBI foils drone attack plan at White House UFC event

The FBI, led by director Kash Patel, announced that it had blocked a planned attack involving explosive‑laden drones at the White House on the Sunday UFC match. The plot was part of a multi‑state operation, and several suspects were taken into custody before the attack could be carried out.

Sources told CBS News that the attackers intended to use drones to strike nearby buildings, incite panic, and funnel crowds toward a sniper team before a “second wave” of assailants would storm the White House gate.

The investigation uncovered Signal chat logs showing discussions of the plan, and a suspect was apprehended in Cincinnati last week.

The FBI’s statement emphasized its role in detecting, responding to, and bringing to justice those who threaten American citizens, especially during large events like the historic UFC 250 fight.

The Secret Service confirmed close collaboration with the FBI and said it would provide formal comments through court filings. The UFC event, held on the South Lawn to celebrate President Trump’s 80th birthday, drew crowds and some members of his administration.