FBI Foils ISIS-Inspired Terror Plot Targeting NC Grocery Store on New Year’s Eve/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The FBI arrested 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant of Mint Hill, North Carolina, for plotting an ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve attack targeting a grocery store and fast food restaurant. Authorities uncovered weapons, tactical gear, and a handwritten plan outlining a mass stabbing and martyrdom operation. Sturdivant remains in federal custody and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
Quick Look:
- Arrested: Christian Sturdivant, 18
- Charge: Attempting to provide material support to ISIS
- Target: Grocery store and fast food restaurant in Mint Hill, NC
- Planned Date: New Year’s Eve 2025
- Evidence Seized: Knives, hammers, tactical gloves, vest, handwritten attack plan
- Maximum Penalty: 20 years in federal prison
FBI Foils ISIS-Inspired Terror Plot Targeting NC Grocery Store on New Year’s Eve
Deep Look
MINT HILL, N.C. – Federal agents arrested an 18-year-old North Carolina man on charges of attempting to support a foreign terrorist organization after uncovering an alleged plot to carry out a New Year’s Eve terror attack in support of ISIS.
Christian Sturdivant, of Mint Hill — a suburb of Charlotte — is accused of planning to attack civilians at a local grocery store and fast food restaurant. Federal authorities say his targets included Jews, Christians, and LGBTQ individuals, based on handwritten notes seized during a Dec. 29 search of his home.
Plot Disrupted by FBI Sting
Sturdivant was unknowingly communicating with an undercover federal agent posing as an ISIS operative online. During these conversations, he expressed allegiance to the Islamic State, sent photos of weapons, and declared: “I will do jihad soon… I am a soldier of the state.”
He also described plans to carry out an attack on a grocery store and fast food location in his hometown using knives and potentially a firearm. Prosecutors revealed that he worked at a Burger King, one of the intended targets.https://www.newslooks.com/democrats-target-gop-over-expired-obamacare-subsidies/
During the search of Sturdivant’s home, agents discovered:
- Two butcher knives and two hammers hidden under his bed
- A tactical vest and gloves
- A handwritten note titled “New Years Attack 2026”, outlining plans to kill 20-21 civilians and describing a “martyrdom operation” by attacking police upon their arrival
Public Safety and Preventative Action
“This was a planned terrorist attack, and innocent people were going to die,” said U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson at a press conference. “Thankfully, law enforcement intervened before the suspect could act.”
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the agency’s work, stating: “Our teams quickly identified the threat and acted decisively — no doubt saving American lives.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi added, “This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved lives. The DOJ remains vigilant against anyone looking to bring ISIS-inspired violence to our communities.”
Previous Radicalization & Warning Signs
This is not the first time Sturdivant appeared on the FBI’s radar. FBI Special Agent James Barnacle Jr., head of the Charlotte field office, revealed that in January 2022, Sturdivant — then a minor — was instructed by an overseas ISIS contact to attack civilians with a hammer while dressed in black. Though no charges were filed at the time, he underwent psychological treatment.
“This investigation highlights the real and growing threat of online radicalization,” Barnacle said. “It also shows the importance of family and community intervention. His family acted in 2022. Unfortunately, this time the threat escalated.”
Hateful Social Media Activity
According to court documents, Sturdivant posted pro-ISIS content in December 2025. In one disturbing image, he included text that read: “May Allah curse the cross worshipers,” alongside figurines of Jesus — aligning with ISIS’s extreme anti-Christian rhetoric.
What Happens Next
Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison. The investigation remains ongoing.
Law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain alert and report suspicious behavior.
“If your child, friend, or neighbor is falling into dangerous ideology, you’ll be the first to see it,” Barnacle added. “Together, we can stop it.”
Community Resources & Reporting Suspicious Activity
- FBI Tip Line: fbi.gov/tips
- See Something, Say Something: Report suspicious behavior to local law enforcement
- Mental Health Resources: If you suspect radicalization, seek professional help immediately
Conclusion
The foiled New Year’s Eve attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing domestic threat posed by self-radicalized individuals inspired by foreign terrorist organizations. Thanks to swift action by the FBI and federal partners, a potential tragedy was averted before it could unfold in a place where everyday Americans live, shop, and work.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.