FBI foils ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve plot; North Carolina teen arrested
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Washington: Federal authorities have arrested an 18-year-old North Carolina man on charges of plotting a mass-casualty terror attack on New Year’s Eve in support of the Islamic State (ISIS). The US Justice Department announced that Christian Sturdivant was taken into custody after investigators uncovered plans to attack a grocery store and fast-food restaurant using knives and hammers.
According to the criminal complaint filed on December 31, 2025, and unsealed Thursday, the FBI began investigating Sturdivant in mid-December after he posted ISIS-aligned rhetoric on social media. During interactions with an undercover operative he believed to be an ISIS member, Sturdivant allegedly declared himself a "soldier of the state" and pledged loyalty to the terror group.
"This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack," said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the bureau intervened before the suspect could execute his violent plans.
Court documents reveal that a search of Sturdivant's residence on December 29 yielded handwritten notes detailing a "New Years Attack 2026." The notes listed tactical gear and outlined a "martyrdom operation" aimed at stabbing civilians and attacking responding police officers. Sturdivant faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
(Inputs from IANS)