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The FBI thwarted an alleged plot to target the Ultimate Fighting Championship event at the White House over the weekend, according to Director Kash Patel."On June 10, FBI and our law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region – and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold," Patel said in a post on social media on June 16, linking to a Fox News report.Patel did not share additional details in the social media post, and the FBI directed USA TODAY to the same post in response to a request for more information. The Secret Service said in post that it worked with the FBI on the investigation."In the days leading up to this weekend, our special agents, mission support personnel, and technical security teams worked around the clock to identify those responsible and hold them accountable," the Secret Service said.Fox News, citing unnamed officials, reported that there were five people in custody. The alleged plan included setting off explosives to cause people to evacuate, drawing them near a team of snipers, before a "second wave" would attack the White House gate, the officials reportedly told Fox News.The event the evening of June 14 on the White House South Lawn was timed to coincide with President Donald Trump's 80th birthday and came amid the celebration for the United States' 250th anniversary. Trump and family members were in attendance, and entered the fighting ring to congratulate the champion as fireworks burst overhead at the end. Other administration officials were also present, including Vice President JD Vance, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.The event was initially delayed by weather. Preparations since May have cost more than $60 million.
