UMVA has learned that a disturbing plot to attack a high-profile UFC event at the White House was allegedly foiled by a vigilant mother who grew concerned about her son's increasingly erratic behavior.
The mother of 19-year-old Tycen Proper, an Ohio man charged in connection with the alleged plot, noticed a troubling shift in her son's interests, including an obsession with guns, tactical gear, and secretive online communications. Her concerns ultimately led authorities to investigate and potentially prevent a catastrophic attack.
According to information obtained by UMVA, federal authorities allege that Proper was part of a group planning to target UFC Freedom 250, a June 14 event held on the White House South Lawn. The alleged plot involved using explosive-laden drones, sniper positions, and coordinated attacks on attendees and other targets.
The complaint reveals that one of the biggest warning signs came when Proper's mother observed him researching locations near Washington, D.C., and receiving maps and images through text messages and Discord. When she confronted him, Proper allegedly said the group planned to conduct "recon" and "hit and run missions," which his mother interpreted as planning shootings.
Proper's mother contacted authorities on June 10, after becoming concerned about her son's recent firearms purchases and communications with people he had met online. Deputies who responded to the family's Knox County, Ohio, home found that Proper's father had also noticed a change in his son's behavior, with plans to meet members of the group during the weekend of June 13.
Prosecutors allege that Proper had acquired firearms, body armor, ammunition, and tactical gear, spending about $3,000 of his graduation money on the purchases. Family members later voluntarily turned over the equipment to law enforcement, potentially preventing it from falling into the wrong hands.
Investigators reviewed Proper's phone and allegedly discovered Signal chats discussing plans for an attack during the June 14 UFC event at the White House, including the use of explosive-laden drones and shooters positioned near evacuation routes. Prosecutors also allege that Proper later admitted participating in planning discussions.
The swift action of Proper's mother and the subsequent investigation highlight the critical role that family members and vigilant citizens can play in preventing potential threats. Experts have praised the mother's courage in coming forward, saying it likely prevented a tragic event from unfolding.
In the aftermath of the foiled plot, authorities have emphasized the importance of community awareness and surveillance in identifying potential threats. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex and evolving nature of modern security challenges.
