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 – Recent federal investigations have revealed a coordinated effort to disrupt a major UFC event held at the White House, with plans involving both drones and a potential gunman. The Secret Service and FBI, working together, uncovered evidence of the plot through messages exchanged among multiple individuals, leading to the unsealing of criminal complaints against five suspects on Tuesday. These documents detail how the group sought to target the event, which was a significant gathering of political and public figures, as part of a broader strategy to strike at the U.S. government.

A Mother’s Concern Sparks the Investigation

Tycen Proper, a 19-year-old defendant, was flagged by his mother after she raised concerns about his behavior. On June 10, she contacted local authorities, stating she had “concerns about her son” due to his recent actions. The complaint outlines how Proper had purchased firearms and engaged with an online radical group, which he frequented through platforms like TikTok. His mother also noted that he had researched maps of Washington, DC, focusing on areas near the White House, and shared that the group was considering multiple locations for “reconnaissance” and “hit-and-run operations.”

“Her son had been communicating with a group of radicals online and had expressed interest in mapping out strategic points for an attack,” the complaint states.

The mother’s tip led to the discovery of messages that hinted at the plot, which law enforcement later linked to Proper’s activities. The group he joined, referred to as “Vanguard of the Old,” was centered around accelerationism—a belief system that advocates for the rapid collapse of society to pave the way for a more structured and improved system. Members of the group expressed frustration with government policies and institutions, particularly those tied to Jeffrey Epstein’s influence.

Antisemitism and Political Targets

According to court records, Proper’s focus within the group was not only on dismantling government structures but also on specific political figures. He targeted lawmakers who supported Israel, as evidenced by shared images of these officials in his chats. Other members of the group, meanwhile, voiced strong antisemitic views, accusing the government of being controlled by elites who, in their opinion, had sacrificed children for power. These sentiments were amplified by the belief that President Donald Trump shielded these elites from accountability.

“Some members cited government corruption and the Epstein files as key grievances, while others railed against the role of data centers in community water shortages,” the complaint adds.

Proper’s involvement in the group began in March 2026, when he first connected with them through TikTok. Over time, his communication shifted to private messaging apps, where he and 19 others collaborated on tactical plans. The primary chat included detailed discussions about roles, such as snipers and logistics coordinators, while smaller subgroups focused on specific aspects of the operation. One of these subgroups even considered using the Potomac River as a potential escape route after an attack.

Gear and Intentions Uncovered at Home Search

A law enforcement search of Proper’s residence revealed a trove of equipment he had allegedly gathered with his recent graduation funds. The items included a bullpup rifle, an AR-15 style rifle, ballistic plates, a shotgun, and numerous magazines of ammunition. His father told investigators that Proper had planned to travel to Washington, DC, over the weekend of the UFC event to meet with the group. The firearms, painted with American flags, were described as part of a well-organized setup for the attack.

“Proper had amassed ‘gear, food, and ballistic plates’ to support his plans, according to the complaint.”

Proper was taken to a local hospital on the night of his mother’s call due to his “homicidal ideations,” a term used to describe his contemplation of violent acts. During a follow-up phone interview, his mother confirmed that he had recently joined an online group claiming to be former military members with Christian ties. The group emphasized ultra-religious and anti-government perspectives, criticizing policies ranging from corruption to the handling of Epstein’s case.

Group’s Goal: Destruction and Rebuilding

The “Vanguard of the Old” members believed the United States needed to be dismantled and reformed, according to law enforcement. This ideology, which Proper embraced, was rooted in the idea that societal collapse could lead to a more efficient system. The group’s chats revealed a clear division of labor, with individuals assigned to roles like shooters and planners. Proper, in interviews with the FBI, admitted to participating in these plans but initially claimed he was attending a protest rather than preparing to commit violence.

“Proper said he was going to a demonstration, but the evidence suggested he was more than prepared to carry out an attack,” the complaint notes.

The FBI’s affidavit highlights how Proper identified other members of the group during his interrogation, enabling swift arrests. Two of the alleged conspirators were apprehended in California, while others were taken into custody in Nebraska and Missouri. All have been charged with conspiracy to murder and conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States. Proper’s legal status remains pending as he has not yet entered a plea.

Broader Implications of the Plot

The case underscores the growing influence of extremist groups in planning attacks on high-profile events. The use of drones, a relatively modern tool, combined with traditional weapons like rifles, reflects a blend of old and new tactics in contemporary terrorism. Proper’s connection to the group also raises questions about how online platforms can facilitate radicalization, especially among young individuals with access to financial resources.

Analysts suggest that the group’s focus on political targets aligns with a broader trend of using public events as opportunities to strike at perceived enemies of the state. The combination of antisemitism, accelerationism, and dissatisfaction with government actions highlights a complex web of motivations. As the investigation continues, authorities are examining whether the plot was part of a larger network or a standalone operation.

Community and Government Reactions

Local law enforcement emphasized the importance of community vigilance in uncovering the plot. Proper’s mother, who acted as an informant, is now seen as a critical figure in the case. Meanwhile, the White House has reiterated its commitment to security, stating that the event was a secure location despite the threat. The Secret Service and FBI have since increased their monitoring of similar groups, particularly those with ties to radical ideologies and a focus on targeting political institutions.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of threats to national security. The integration of technology, like drones, with traditional weapons demonstrates how modern tools can be weaponized in both physical and ideological ways. Proper’s arrest and the subsequent investigations into his co-conspirators highlight the collaborative efforts of federal agencies to preempt potential attacks and maintain public safety.