Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
18 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

Two More Arrested in Foiled Plot to Attack White House UFC Event

The arrests expand federal charges to seven and deepen a multi-state FBI probe that alleges conspirators planned explosive-laden drones to force evacuations toward prepositioned shooters and that prosecutions are continuing.

America's Justin Gaethje celebrates after defeating Georgia's Ilia Topuria during "UFC Freedom 250" mixed martial arts event on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, in the early morning hours of June 15, 2026.
A worker on a lift uses a sledge hammer as crews work to disassemble the structure that was built for UFC Freedom 250 at the White in Washington, Sunday, June 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)
President Donald Trump applauds after Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Toupruia in the lightweight championship bout at UFC Freedom 250 on the South Lawn of the White House, Monday, June 15, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Image

Overview

  • The Department of Justice announced Monday that William Lee Spartacus Falkner and Jordan W. Rincker were charged with conspiracy to commit murder, bringing the number of publicly charged defendants to seven.
  • Falkner was arrested Friday, June 19, and is accused in court filings of discussing how to procure, rig and operate drones with explosives for use over the June 14 UFC Freedom 250 event.
  • Rincker was arrested Sunday, June 21, and is accused of acting as a logistical and financial conduit who accepted cash, transferred money to co-conspirators, handed over a shotgun, and received a 3D printer and other equipment.
  • Investigators opened the probe after the mother of a suspected participant alerted authorities on June 10; searches of that participant’s phone revealed encrypted Signal and Telegram chats that linked roughly 19 people and operational subgroups.
  • Searches across multiple states recovered firearms, tactical gear, 3D-printed gun parts and communication devices, but court records do not yet confirm seizure of explosives or ready-to-fly operational drones and the FBI says the investigation remains active.