Federal Charges Filed Against Chicago Resident Over White House UFC Attack Plot

Federal prosecutors have charged Chicago resident Alexander Iniguez Mercado with obstruction of justice and conspiracy in an alleged scheme to attack a Freedom 250 UFC event on the White House lawn. The indictment alleges the group planned to use explosive‑laden drones to force attendees toward a secondary exit where co‑conspirators armed with firearms and sniper rifles could open fire. Eight individuals in total have been accused, and investigators recovered firearms, ammunition, tactical gear and communications discussing the plot.

Mercado entered a not‑guilty plea in federal court and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The FBI disrupted the plan after a tip from a suspect’s mother and warned that a second wave of attacks had been contemplated. Former House Intelligence Committee chair Mike Rogers linked the plot to inflammatory political rhetoric, but law‑enforcement officials emphasized the primary threat was the domestic extremist scheme itself.

The case remains active, with further court hearings scheduled as prosecutors continue to examine digital evidence and potential co‑conspirators.