Authorities say they've disrupted planned drone, gun attack on White House UFC cage-fighting show

U.S. law enforcement officials disrupted a planned drone-and-firearm attack on a UFC cage‑fighting show staged at the White House, according to court papers unsealed Tuesday. Investigators recovered firearms from several suspects and obtained encrypted messages among roughly 20 participants who shared maps and aerial photographs of the area and discussed a 'safe house' and escape routes after the attack. Five people from states including Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska and California were arrested on federal charges, with prosecutors outlining plans to deploy explosives-laden drones and shoot panicked crowds if necessary.

Director Kash Patel said the FBI, partners and the DOJ acted quickly to stop the plot, and Deputy Secret Service Director Matthew Quinn cautioned that the investigation remains ongoing. Prosecutors identified suspects from multiple states, including Tycen Proper, a 19-year-old from Danville, Ohio. Some defendants claimed they did not intend to carry out violence and planned to attend as protesters or observers. The charging documents depict a broad conspiracy with anti-government and extremist themes, though Trump and Vance said they were not briefed previously. The investigation continues as authorities review encrypted messages and coordination plans.