19-year-old would-be attacker of UFC event sought to use drones and was referred to police by his parents, FBI says

FBI Unveils Plot to Attack UFC Event at White House

19 year old would be attacker – Federal authorities have revealed a conspiracy involving multiple individuals aimed at disrupting the UFC fight night event held at the White House, according to unsealed criminal complaints. The plan reportedly included the use of drones and a gunman, with law enforcement agencies such as the Secret Service and FBI uncovering communications that outlined the scheme. The investigation, which spans several states, has led to charges against five people, with details emerging about the group’s motivations and preparations.

Parents as Informants in the Plot

Tycen Proper, a 19-year-old defendant, was identified as a key figure in the plot. His mother, who had expressed concern over his behavior, contacted local police on June 10, 2026, citing her son’s recent actions. These included purchasing firearms and engaging in online conversations with a radical group. According to the complaint, she noted that Proper had been studying maps of Washington, DC, and had mentioned plans to target locations near the White House.

“Was concerned about her son because of his recent conduct,” the mother said in a statement.

The mother also alleged that Proper had discussed potential attack strategies, such as reconnaissance and hit-and-run missions, during conversations at home. This prompted authorities to investigate further, leading to the discovery of detailed tactical plans later that night.

Accelerationism and Political Targets

The group Proper joined was associated with accelerationism, a philosophy that advocates for accelerating societal collapse to create a new order. Members expressed frustration with government corruption and dissatisfaction with figures like Jeffrey Epstein, according to court records. Some claimed the Epstein files were a symbol of elite manipulation, while others targeted lawmakers with pro-Israel stances, citing their policies as a source of grievance.

“Didn’t want people connected to Jeffrey Epstein running the country,” one chat message stated.

Proper’s ideological focus aligned with these sentiments, as he reportedly aimed to eliminate pro-Israel legislators. The group also displayed strong antisemitic views, accusing the government of being controlled by elites who allegedly sacrifice babies and are shielded by President Donald Trump. These beliefs were shared in online discussions, which fueled the planning of the attack.

FBI Finds Detailed Tactical Plans

During a search of Proper’s residence, agents uncovered a chat containing high-resolution images of Washington, DC, with annotated sniper positions and marked “potential drone launch locations.” The document described the group’s strategy, including using the Potomac River as an escape route after the attack. Proper admitted to collaborating with others in the group, according to an FBI affidavit, and claimed the plan was to “attack the US government during the UFC event.”

“Proper later admitted to planning with others in the group to attack the US government during the UFC fight,” the FBI agent wrote.

The chat also featured images of members of Congress who supported Israel, identified as possible targets. Proper’s father, in an interview with law enforcement, said his son had been preparing for the weekend of the event by stockpiling “gear, food, ballistic plates, a new shotgun, a rifle, ‘lots’ of ammunition, extra magazines, and plate carriers.” The items were allegedly funded by Proper’s recent graduation money, according to the complaint.

Communication and Group Structure

Proper first connected with the group, known as the “Vanguard of the Old,” in March 2026 through TikTok. The group’s ideology, which centered on dismantling the current political system, gained traction via private messaging apps as the plot evolved. The primary chat contained 19 members, with smaller groups forming around specific roles such as shooters and logistics coordinators.

“He was going to a protest but not to shoot people,” Proper said during an FBI interview.

This statement, however, was met with skepticism as the group’s activities grew more intense. Law enforcement found evidence of coordinated efforts to meet in Washington, DC, on the weekend of the UFC event, with Proper’s father confirming his son had been organizing to join others for the attack.

Arrests and Charges Across Multiple States

The investigation revealed that two alleged co-conspirators were arrested in California, while others were taken into custody in Nebraska and Missouri. All five individuals have been charged with conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States. Proper’s case includes additional counts of attempted murder of federal officers, with the FBI emphasizing the severity of the planned attack.

Lawmakers have raised concerns about the group’s intentions, noting the blend of religious and political extremism in their rhetoric. Some members, described as ex-military and Christian-based, promoted ultra-religious views alongside antigovernment sentiments. Their grievances included complaints about the Epstein files, data centers, and government policies, which they blamed for societal decay.

Context of the Attack

The UFC event at the White House was chosen as a strategic target due to its symbolic significance and high-profile attendees. The use of drones suggested a modern approach to terrorism, combining technology with traditional weaponry. Proper’s admission to the plot, as well as the detailed planning found in his chats, has raised alarms about the potential for coordinated attacks on government infrastructure.

While Proper denied immediate intent to kill, the evidence pointed to a well-organized plan. His parents’ involvement in alerting authorities highlights the role of family members in identifying threats. The FBI’s ongoing investigation now includes reviewing the group’s online activities and assessing the risk of further attacks.

Broader Implications of the Conspiracy

Authorities believe the group’s focus on accelerationism reflects a growing trend of ideological extremism linked to political dissent. The combination of online radicalization and physical preparation underscores the challenges of monitoring potential threats in the digital age. Proper’s case has also sparked debates about the role of social media in fostering such plots, with agencies calling for increased surveillance of extremist networks.

As the investigation continues, questions remain about the extent of the group’s reach and whether other targets were identified. The arrests have not fully resolved the conspiracy, but they provide a critical insight into the planning and execution of attacks on American institutions. The White House event, now a focal point of national security concerns, serves as a reminder of the diverse tactics employed by modern extremists.