DOJ: 5 Arrested in Plot to Attack White House UFC Event

Federal authorities arrested five people accused of plotting a terrorist attack on a UFC event scheduled this weekend at the White House, the Justice Department announced Wednesday. Officials described the plot as a coordinated effort by a cell of extremists.

Court documents identify one suspect as a 19-year-old Ohio man who told investigators he had been organizing the attack alongside a group holding ultra-religious and anti-government views, arrest documents show. The names and specific charges against all five suspects had not been fully released as of publication time.

The arrests carry direct implications for federal security posture across Florida, including at high-profile public events in Treasure Coast communities. The FBI's Miami Field Office, which holds jurisdiction over Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties, coordinates threat assessment for large gatherings throughout the region. A spokesperson for the Miami Field Office could not be immediately reached for comment. Residents and event organizers in the tri-county area are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement or the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

The plot represents the latest in a string of alleged domestic terrorism cases investigated by the Justice Department in recent years, in which suspects have targeted high-visibility federal properties or nationally televised events.

No injuries were reported. Attorney General Pam Bondi had not issued a public statement as of publication time. The Justice Department did not immediately say which specific charges would be pursued or in which federal district the cases would be prosecuted.

A federal court hearing date for the five suspects has not been publicly announced.

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