FBI Thwarts ISIS-Inspired NYE Massacre Plot
FBI Disrupts ISIS-Inspired New Year’s Eve Attack Plot in North Carolina
Federal and local law enforcement agencies successfully prevented a planned ISIS-inspired attack in Mint Hill, North Carolina, on New Year’s Eve, officials announced Friday.
Authorities said the suspect, 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant, had been under investigation for several years and allegedly intended to target Christians, Jews and members of the LGBT community.
According to court filings, Sturdivant had been in contact with an undercover agent he believed to be affiliated with ISIS.
He described himself as a “soldier of the state” and maintained a detailed handwritten manifesto outlining a violent assault using knives and hammers.
Investigators said the document, labeled “New Years Attack 2026,” included tactical plans, target locations, estimates of 20 to 21 potential casualties and a “martyrdom operation” aimed at law enforcement responding to the scene.
Social media communications further revealed Sturdivant’s allegiance to ISIS, including posts last month expressing anti-Christian and anti-Jewish sentiments.
Authorities allege he shared images of weapons with the undercover operative and discussed purchasing firearms to complement his attack plans.
A search of Sturdivant’s residence on Monday yielded a blue hammer, a wooden-handled hammer, two butcher knives, tactical gloves, a vest and handwritten notes consistent with his online communications.
Officials said some items had been hidden under the bed, and a relative had previously attempted to secure the weapons to prevent harm, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Authorities said Sturdivant had been in contact with an overseas ISIS operative and had been on the FBI’s radar since 2022.
Despite a documented history of mental illness, attempts to involuntarily commit him were denied. At the time of his arrest, Sturdivant worked at a local fast-food restaurant.
Law enforcement officials emphasized the importance of multi-agency collaboration in preventing the attack.
The FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force coordinated with local police departments and federal agencies, including the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, to disrupt the plot before it could be carried out.
Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the investigation, stating, “Anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the role of timely intelligence sharing in averting what could have been a mass-casualty event.
The case underscores ongoing concerns over domestic threats posed by individuals inspired by international terrorist groups.
Law enforcement noted that lone actors motivated by extremist ideology continue to represent a significant challenge to public safety, requiring vigilance and interagency cooperation nationwide.
Sturdivant faces federal charges of attempted provision of material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization.
If convicted, he could receive a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Authorities continue to monitor potential extremist activity, and Sturdivant remains in federal custody pending trial.
“The disruption of this plot demonstrates the dedication of law enforcement to protect communities during the holiday season and beyond,” said James C. Barnacle Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Charlotte Field Office.
Officials said the case reflects a broader national strategy to detect and neutralize threats before they reach the public.
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