The FBI has disrupted a plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House, involving explosive drones and gunmen.
FBI Disrupts Drone Attack Scheme Targeting UFC Event
Federal authorities have successfully thwarted a suspected plot involving explosive drones aimed at the UFC Freedom 250 event held on the White House South Lawn this past Sunday. Court documents reveal that five individuals were apprehended as they allegedly planned to use drones to disperse the crowd before targeting key figures with gunfire.
The suspects include Tycen Proper from Ohio, Daniel Eskridge from Missouri, Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez from Nebraska, and California residents Bryan Omar Roa and Michael Alan Thomas. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the disruption, stating that the FBI, in collaboration with law enforcement partners, acted swiftly to neutralize the threat, leading to the arrest of several suspects.
At the time of the disruption, the UFC Freedom 250 was drawing significant attention, with notable attendees like former President Donald Trump and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg present. The event also featured sponsorship from various cryptocurrency firms, enhancing its profile within the crypto community.
The investigation revealed that Proper and his associates were part of a group known as "Vanguard of the Old," which initiated discussions about the attack in March. According to the complaint, Proper indicated that the plan involved deploying drones carrying explosives and positioning shooters to target individuals fleeing the scene.
Concerns about Proper's behavior, including firearm purchases and online activity, prompted his family to alert law enforcement, leading to the investigation. The group reportedly expressed grievances over government corruption and other issues, with Proper mentioning a desire to instigate a revolution in the U.S.
This incident follows another recent threat involving drone use against events, highlighting ongoing security concerns. Despite the alarming nature of the threat, federal officials assured that the UFC Freedom 250 event remained secure thanks to preemptive measures taken by law enforcement.
“This result showcases the effectiveness of our investigative work,” Patel emphasized, reaffirming the commitment to protect American citizens during major public events.
