CHARLOTTE, N.C., January 2, 2026 — The FBI has foiled an ISIS-inspired terror plot targeting civilians in North Carolina on New Year’s Eve. Federal officials have charged 18-year-old Christan Sturdivant of Mint Hill with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization after he allegedly planned knife and hammer attacks.
Who is the suspect in the foiled attack?
The suspect is 18-year-old Christan Sturdivant, a resident of Mint Hill, North Carolina. The FBI identified Sturdivant as an individual allegedly radicalized by ISIS and charged him with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. He was taken into custody on Wednesday and ordered detained after a court appearance on Friday.
What was the alleged New Year’s Eve terror plot?
Sturdivant allegedly planned to carry out attacks using a knife and hammer targeting civilians and responding police officers at a local grocery outlet. According to an FBI affidavit, a search of his residence recovered a handwritten note titled “New Years Attack 2026” that detailed plans to stab up to 20 people. Officials stated he had been planning the attack for a year.
How did the FBI uncover the plot?
The investigation began last month after law enforcement received information about social media activity praising the Islamic State. Officials linked the account to Sturdivant. The FBI affidavit also noted Sturdivant had drawn investigative attention in January 2022 as a minor, when he communicated with an Islamic State affiliate in Europe who allegedly advised him on carrying out attacks with a hammer.
What are the next legal steps?
Christan Sturdivant appeared before U.S. District Judge Susan Rodriguez on Friday and was ordered to remain in detention. A further hearing in the case is scheduled for January 7. He has not yet formally responded to the charges of attempting to provide material support to ISIS.
FAQs:
Q: What specific location was targeted in the plot?
A: Although investigators have not revealed the name of the specific establishment, the alleged plot targeted a nearby grocery store in North Carolina.
Q: What did FBI Director Kash Patel say about the case?
A: FBI Director Kash Patel praised the joint actions of several agencies in a statement on X, saying they “undoubtedly sav[ed] lives” by preventing the possible assault on New Year’s Eve.
Q: Was the suspect previously known to authorities?
A: Yes, according to the FBI affidavit, Sturdivant had drawn the attention of investigators in January 2022 when he was still a minor for communicating with an ISIS affiliate.