Daijiworld Media Network - Charlotte
Charlotte, Jan 3: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said Friday it disrupted an ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve attack plot in North Carolina, arresting an 18-year-old man who allegedly planned a mass stabbing at a grocery store and a fast-food outlet.
Christian Sturdivant has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation. Prosecutors said he pledged loyalty to the Islamic State (IS) and disclosed his plans to an undercover FBI employee posing as a confidant.
Court records and investigators revealed that Sturdivant intended to carry out attacks using knives and blunt weapons. Authorities said online conversations, combined with a search of his home, indicated an imminent threat.
US Attorney for Western North Carolina Russ Ferguson said the FBI maintained constant surveillance over Sturdivant in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, including on Christmas, to prevent any danger to the public. “At no point was the public in harm’s way,” Ferguson said.
Sturdivant was arrested on Wednesday and remained in federal custody following a court appearance on Friday. Another hearing is scheduled for January 7. Searches of his phone and residence uncovered a handwritten manifesto outlining his plans. FBI Special Agent in Charge James Barnacle said the suspect was prepared to die during the attack.
The manifesto reportedly detailed his intent to “stab as many civilians as possible,” listed an expected number of victims, and included plans to target responding police officers. The note framed the attack as retaliation for airstrikes and military operations against Muslims in Syria. Authorities said the planned attack was to take place in Mint Hill, a suburb of Charlotte, and Sturdivant had previously worked at a Burger King in the area.
The investigation began last month after authorities linked Sturdivant to a social media account supporting IS, including violent content referencing Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the group’s former leader. He had previously come to the FBI’s attention in January 2022 when, as a minor, he was stopped by a family member while attempting a similar act and later underwent psychological treatment.
Federal authorities noted that the case highlights the continuing threat of lone-actor attacks inspired by extremist ideology, with individuals often acting independently under the influence of such groups.
If convicted, Sturdivant faces up to 20 years in prison.