FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Friday that agents disrupted a “potential terrorist attack in Michigan before it could unfold,” citing coordinated efforts with law enforcement partners. The agency stated the plot was linked to international terrorism and emphasized vigilance as critical to protecting the homeland.
The FBI intervened after undercover operatives monitored online communications within a chat group, according to sources. Law enforcement alleged the suspects discussed firearms and possible ties to a foreign terrorist organization. Investigators noted references to “pumpkin day,” believed to be code for Halloween, as part of the planning.
Suspects aged 16 to 20 were involved, with at least two arrested and three taken into questioning. White House Senior Director for Counterterrorism Seb Gorka described the plot as a “Jihadi terror plot in Detroit,” highlighting its timing during Halloween, when children would be trick-or-treating.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino reiterated the agency’s commitment to homeland security, stating authorities would not relent. The Dearborn Police Department confirmed FBI operations in the city but assured residents there was no ongoing threat.
A law enforcement source told CBS News that an FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force member identified two teenagers in an “online ISIS chat room.” However, no concrete plan materialized from the discussions. Authorities noted potential connections to Ammar Abdulmajid-Mohamed Said, a 19-year-old arrested in May for allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired attack on a Detroit military site.
The plot was described as poorly organized, with the FBI monitoring online conversations for weeks without evidence of a structured plan.
