ISIS-Inspired New Year Attack Foiled in US: FBI Arrests 18-Year-Old in North Carolina

US federal authorities have foiled an alleged ISIS-inspired terror plot targeting public locations during New Year celebrations, arresting an 18-year-old man in North Carolina before the attack could be carried out.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed the arrest of Christian Sturdivant following an investigation that uncovered plans to launch a violent assault on civilians in the town of Mint Hill. According to authorities, the suspect was allegedly motivated by extremist ideology linked to Islamic State.

Investigators stated that the teenager intended to carry out the attack on New Year’s Eve, targeting a grocery store and a fast-food restaurant — locations chosen specifically due to the expected presence of large crowds. The planned weapons included knives and hammers, indicating an intention to conduct a close-range assault aimed at causing maximum harm.

The criminal complaint, unsealed following Sturdivant’s initial court appearance in Charlotte, charges him with attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organisation. Prosecutors allege that the suspect expressed admiration for ISIS propaganda and had consumed extremist content online that influenced his actions.

Law enforcement officials emphasised that the arrest was the result of proactive intelligence gathering and surveillance, allowing authorities to intervene before any physical harm occurred. The FBI credited its counterterrorism units for identifying warning signs early and neutralising the threat during the planning stage.

Officials said the case underscores the evolving nature of terrorism threats in the United States, where online radicalisation plays a significant role, particularly among young individuals. While no direct operational link between the suspect and ISIS was established, investigators noted that ideological inspiration alone is sufficient under US law to warrant terrorism-related charges.

The suspect is currently in federal custody and will face further legal proceedings. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence under US counterterrorism statutes.

Security experts have warned that lone-actor attacks inspired by extremist groups remain one of the most difficult threats to detect and prevent. Such plots often involve low-tech weapons, making them harder to identify through traditional surveillance methods.

The FBI reiterated its call for public vigilance, urging citizens to report suspicious behaviour or online activity that may signal radicalisation or violent intent. Authorities also highlighted the role of community awareness in preventing extremist violence.

This foiled attack comes amid heightened global security concerns surrounding public gatherings, especially during major holidays. US law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned that symbolic dates such as New Year’s Eve are often targeted by extremist sympathisers seeking attention and disruption.

Officials stressed that there is no ongoing threat to the public related to this case and confirmed that the intervention prevented any injuries or loss of life.