A mother in Ohio potentially prevented a serious attack on a UFC event at the White House by reaching out to authorities about her son’s alarming behavior. Tycen Proper, 19, was charged after his mother raised concerns about his sudden interest in guns, tactical equipment, and secretive online interactions.
Federal court documents reveal Proper was part of a group concocting a scheme to disrupt UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, located on the White House South Lawn. Investigators report the group aimed to use explosive drones, sniper positions, and coordinated attacks on attendees.
The alert began when Proper’s mother noticed his increased focus on locations near Washington, D.C., receiving maps and pictures through texts and Discord communications.
When confronted, Proper allegedly mentioned plans for ‘recon’ and ‘hit and run missions,’ interpreted by his mother as potential shootings.
On June 10, Proper’s mother informed authorities, alarmed by recent firearm purchases and online contacts. Local deputies responded to the family’s home in Knox County, Ohio, and discovered Proper planned to meet the group during the weekend of June 13.
Proper’s father revealed his son recently acquired firearms and tactical gear, allegedly spending $3,000 of graduation funds on these items, which the family later surrendered to law enforcement.
Proper’s mother shared that her son communicated with an online group claiming to involve former military and portraying themselves as Christian-based, which influenced Proper to focus on physical and tactical training.
Following local law enforcement’s contact with the FBI, agents examined Proper’s phone, finding encrypted conversations about an attack during the June 14 event. These plans included employing explosive drones and sniper setups near escape routes. Investigators allege Proper confessed to participating in attack planning discussions.
The intervention came amidst President Donald Trump’s hosting of UFC Freedom 250, celebrating his 80th birthday with championship matches on the South Lawn.
Retired FBI agent Jason Pack and Rob Chadwick concurred that family awareness played a crucial role in halting the alleged plot. They emphasized the importance of recognizing suspicious behavior and acting promptly.