FBI thwarts ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve terror plot in North Carolina, 18-year-old arrested

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced that it successfully foiled a suspected ISIS-inspired terror attack planned for New Year’s Eve in North Carolina, averting what officials said could have resulted in significant loss of life. An 18-year-old resident of Mint Hill, identified as Christan Sturdivant, has been taken into custody and charged in connection with the alleged plot.

According to the FBI, Sturdivant was allegedly radicalised by the Islamic State (ISIS) and had been planning the attack for nearly a year. Authorities said the suspect intended to target civilians as well as responding law enforcement officers using knives and hammers during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The plan came to light following intelligence inputs and coordinated surveillance by federal agencies.

During a court-authorised search of Sturdivant’s residence, FBI agents recovered a handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The note reportedly detailed plans to stab up to 20 people, outlining the suspect’s alleged intent to carry out mass violence. Reuters first reported on the recovery of the document, citing law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation.

Speaking at a briefing, an FBI official confirmed that Sturdivant has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation, namely ISIS. “The defendant is an 18-year-old who has been planning this attack for about a year. Investigators believe he was inspired and supported ideologically by ISIS,” the official said, emphasising the seriousness of the threat.

While Sturdivant has been arrested and charged, he has not yet formally responded to the allegations in court. Authorities noted that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may emerge as legal proceedings continue.

FBI Director Kash Patel publicly acknowledged the swift and coordinated response by multiple agencies that led to the disruption of the alleged plot. In a post on X, Patel said the FBI and its partners had “foiled another potential New Year’s Eve attack from an individual allegedly inspired by ISIS,” adding that the FBI’s Charlotte field office would provide further details during a press conference. He credited inter-agency cooperation for “undoubtedly saving lives.”

The case underscores ongoing concerns among US security agencies about lone-actor attacks inspired by extremist ideologies, particularly around high-profile dates and public events. Officials reiterated their call for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public to identify and report signs of radicalisation or imminent threats.

As investigations continue, authorities stressed that early intelligence gathering and coordination remain critical tools in preventing acts of terrorism and ensuring public safety.