FBI thwarts 'potential terrorist attack' planned for New Year's Eve in North Carolina
WCNC••general
Key Points:
- The FBI disrupted a planned New Year's Eve terrorist attack in North Carolina by 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant, who intended to use knives and hammers to attack people at a grocery store and fast food restaurant in support of ISIS.
- Sturdivant had been under FBI investigation since 2022 after being in contact with an ISIS member and attempting an earlier attack at age 14, but charges were not filed at that time due to his minor status and subsequent mental health treatment.
- The recent investigation began in December 2025 after Sturdivant communicated with undercover agents posing as ISIS members, revealing detailed plans for a mass stabbing attack and martyrdom.
- Law enforcement found handwritten plans labeled "New Years Attack 2026
