Federal authorities have charged a 19-year-old from Ohio, Tycen Proper, in connection with a purported plot to attack attendees at a recent UFC event held on the South Lawn of the White House. The alleged plan involved explosive-laden drones and armed shooters intending to target individuals as they attempted to escape the scene.
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The charges against Proper include conspiracy to commit an offence against the United States, attempted murder of a U.S. officer or employee, and possession of a firearm in connection with a violent crime. These allegations emerged following the UFC event that took place on June 14, which was attended by prominent figures, including former President Donald Trump.
According to a criminal complaint reviewed by various media outlets, Proper’s alleged intentions first came to light when his mother expressed concern about his behaviour to local law enforcement on June 10. She reported that her son had been engaging with individuals online, acquiring firearms and tactical equipment, and making plans to leave home that weekend.
In the wake of these revelations, Proper’s family voluntarily surrendered their weapons to authorities. Subsequent investigations uncovered photos depicting extensive ammunition supplies, an AR-style rifle, and tactical gear at the family residence. Reports indicate that Proper was later admitted to a local hospital after exhibiting what investigators described as “homicidal ideation.”
During the investigation, Proper’s mother informed authorities that he had recently associated with an online group purportedly comprised of former military members. This group espoused anti-government sentiments and certain religious beliefs. Investigators discovered that discussions related to an attack had taken place on a messaging platform, with members reportedly originating from a TikTok group entitled “Vanguard of the Old”.
The complaint details the group’s assertion that they were motivated by a desire to protect the United States, believing it was heading in a misguided direction. Some members expressed their discontent regarding the handling of sensitive documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, further illustrating the group’s broad grievances.
Proper is said to have acknowledged his involvement in the planning of the attack during interviews with investigators. According to the accusations, the group intended to gather in Fredericksburg, Virginia, before proceeding to Washington, D.C., to carry out their plot. The described operation involved staging a demonstration alongside the White House while drones loaded with explosives targeted the UFC event, purportedly aimed at driving attendees toward armed group members, who would then open fire.
Moreover, investigators reportedly dug up communications from Proper’s phone that included meticulous plans relating to sniper positions, drone launch sites, and potential escape routes. It appears that some messages even discussed specific politicians as potential targets; Proper allegedly mentioned Senator Marsha Blackburn as a target and shared images of various lawmakers.
Despite the serious nature of these allegations, it is important to note that the complaint does not indicate that authorities found any actual drones, explosives, or materials associated with bomb-making during their investigation. Nonetheless, the significance of the situation prompted federal law enforcement to take swift action, leading to the arrests of multiple individuals across various states including Ohio, Missouri, and California.
FBI Director Kash Patel commented that they became aware of a potential threat to the White House event shortly after Proper’s mother reported her concerns. Following this, a coordinated operation was launched across state lines.
The Secret Service has been closely collaborating with the FBI throughout the investigation. Agency Director Sean Curran stated that the specifics of the plan would be addressed in court filings as the case progresses. Tycen Proper made his initial court appearance on a Monday, with a detention hearing set for Wednesday.
As the investigation unfolds, his assigned public defender has not yet commented on the charges. The ongoing developments highlight significant concerns surrounding domestic threats and the complexities involved in safeguarding high-profile events against potential violence.