The FBI says it disrupted a multi-stage plot by five men, led by 19-year-old Tyisen Proffer of Ohio, who allegedly planned to attack a White House event marking both the 250th anniversary of the United States and President Donald Trump’s birthday. The Justice Department announced charges against the group for conspiracy to carry out an attack intended to kill government officials and other attendees at the Sunday event on White House grounds.
According to investigators, the suspects planned to use drone-launched explosives to trigger panic, then position snipers to fire on “high-value targets” among people fleeing the scene. A second wave of attackers was allegedly supposed to storm the White House gates afterward. The FBI said it uncovered photos of weapons and chat messages showing efforts to coordinate the drones and sniper fire, and that the investigation is still ongoing.
Proffer, described by the FBI as the “mastermind,” was arrested after his mother called police and said she was alarmed by his behavior and online contacts. He faces four counts and, if convicted, could receive life in prison. Prosecutors also charged Daniel Ascridge of Missouri, 32, Abraham Hermusio Alvarez of Nebraska, 31, Brian Omar Rua, 24, and Michael Allen Thomas of California, 32.
The FBI said Proffer had accumulated weapons, thousands of rounds of ammunition and military-style tactical gear at his Ohio home. He had also quit his job and spent thousands of dollars from his graduation money on rifles, magazines, ammunition and body armor. He bought a bullpup rifle on June 5 and also had an AR-15-style rifle, a protective vest and additional ammunition. Authorities said the group discussed sniper training and wanted to practice “gorilla-style warfare.”
