Plot to strike White House UFC event thwarted; eight charged

Eight men aged 19–32 were charged with conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and to murder federal officials over an alleged plan to attack the White House during the UFC Freedom 250 event; prosecutors say they plotted to use explosive-laden drones, sniper attacks, and a second wave to storm the White House gate, aiming to sow panic and target high‑profile figures. The plot surfaced after a suspect’s mother alerted authorities days before the June 14 event, which drew about 4,300 attendees including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. The defendants, from across the U.S., face life in prison on murder charges and up to 15 years on terror charges; another suspect was arrested for obstruction of justice.