ISIS-Inspired Plot Uncovered: North Carolina Man Arrested for New Year's Eve Attack Plans

Federal authorities have foiled a potential New Year's Eve attack in North Carolina, arresting an 18-year-old man who allegedly planned to carry out a knife-and-hammer attack on civilians and responding police officers. Christan Sturdivant, of Mint Hill, North Carolina, has been charged with providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, the US Department of Justice announced. According to the FBI, Sturdivant began communicating online with an individual he believed was affiliated with ISIS, but who was actually a government covert employee. During these exchanges, Sturdivant allegedly expressed his intention to carry out jihad and discussed plans to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. A search of Sturdivant's residence uncovered handwritten documents, including a note titled "New Years Attack 2026," which listed items to be used in the attack, including a vest, mask, and two knives. The document also stated a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, listing a target number of "20 to 21" victims. Law enforcement seized a blue hammer, a wooden-handled hammer, and two butcher knives from Sturdivant's home. If convicted, Sturdivant faces up to 20 years in federal prison. The FBI worked with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt the threat of a violent attack. The FBI's mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates their dedication to protecting North Carolina residents. Sturdivant remains in federal custody, and a hearing in the case has been scheduled for January 7. The FBI has credited their partners for working with them to thwart the attack and save lives.