Federal investigators have recovered hammers, knives and a handwritten attack manifesto from the home of a North Carolina teenager arrested for allegedly planning a mass-casualty attack during New Year celebrations in support of the Islamic State (ISIS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has revealed.
According to investigators, the suspect, identified as Christian Sturdivant (18), had planned to carry out attacks at a grocery store and a Burger King fast-food restaurant. US authorities said the planned assault was thwarted before it could be carried out.
Under FBI Surveillance Since 2022
The FBI said Sturdivant had been on its radar since 2022, during which time he was in contact with individuals he believed to be ISIS supporters. Authorities later determined that one of those contacts was an undercover agent with the New York Police Department (NYPD).
During conversations in mid-December, Sturdivant allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and spoke of plans to conduct “imminent jihad.” He later met with another undercover FBI agent—whom he believed to be affiliated with ISIS—and provided detailed accounts of his attack plans.
Handwritten ‘New Year Attack 2026’ Document Recovered
On December 29, authorities searched Sturdivant’s residence and recovered a handwritten document titled “The New Year Attack 2026.” According to investigators, the notes outlined plans to stab as many civilians as possible and explicitly mentioned targeting non-Muslims, LGBTQ individuals, Jews and Christians.
Law enforcement officers also seized two hammers and two butcher knives found beneath Sturdivant’s bed. Investigators said that on December 14, Sturdivant recorded a video showing the weapons and sent it to an undercover agent he believed to be an ISIS associate.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Sturdivant has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organisation. He made his initial court appearance in Charlotte and is currently being held in federal custody. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.
Authorities said the case underscores the continued threat posed by online radicalisation and the importance of ongoing counterterrorism surveillance efforts.
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