Federal authorities say they have thwarted a planned ISIS-inspired Halloween attack targeting the Detroit metro area, arresting two Michigan men accused of preparing for a mass-casualty shooting modeled after major European terror incidents. According to an FBI affidavit unsealed this week, the suspects allegedly coordinated firearms training, stockpiled weapons, and selected Halloween night for maximum public impact before the plot was disrupted.

Prosecutors have charged:

Both men are 20 years old, according to defense attorneys. A third individual referred to as “Person 1” — a juvenile who allegedly used the alias “Athari” — also participated in firearms training and planning discussions, according to court documents. Several unnamed co-conspirators are referenced throughout the complaint.

The FBI alleges the group intended to conduct a large-scale attack in the Detroit suburbs, including the city of Ferndale, known for its diverse community and prominent LGBTQ+ nightlife district. Investigators say the suspects discussed committing violence similar to the 2015 Paris attacks, in which ISIS-affiliated gunmen and bombers killed 130 people across multiple sites.

The investigation began in early September. Federal agents intercepted communications in which the suspects allegedly discussed the timing of the attack, with the juvenile suspect insisting it take place on Halloween. According to the affidavit, one message read:

The phrase “pumpkin” was reportedly used as a code word for the attack. Federal investigators say the group idolized ISIS tactics, shared extremist content online, and envisioned recording the event to spread propaganda.

A key element of the case involves surveillance footage showing Ali, Mahmoud, and the juvenile suspect repeatedly practicing with rifles and pistols at a Michigan gun range. Images released by investigators depict the suspects handling firearms and ammunition during multiple range sessions.

Court filings state that the group also conducted “scouting missions” to potential target areas. Investigators note that because none of the suspects are over 21, they could not legally enter many of the venues they purportedly examined — making their presence and behavior stand out to authorities.

During searches at both suspects’ homes and a storage unit in Inkster, MI, the FBI recovered:

Financial records and browser histories show purchases of firearms, ammunition, and tactical equipment. Among the seized weapons were a Daniel Defense M4 V7 rifle, a Beretta A300 Ultima shotgun, and multiple Palmetto State Armory 5.56 rifles. According to federal filings, both men were legally able to buy firearms.

FBI Director Kash Patel praised the operation, stating that months of surveillance and rapid intervention “likely saved many lives.” U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon Jr. and state officials commended the joint effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

Attorney General Pam Bondi publicly congratulated investigators, writing that the case demonstrated “extraordinary diligence” and prevented “innocent lives from being lost.”

The affidavit describes a pattern of radicalization through online channels. The defendants allegedly:

One alleged co-conspirator returned from overseas travel shortly before the arrests, where customs agents reportedly found photographs of firearms and searches referencing ISIS on his phone.

The FBI asserts that the defendants intended to film their attack using GoPro cameras, mirroring tactics employed by international extremist groups.

Following the arrests, Ali’s attorney initially told the press he believed no charges would be filed, but prosecutors have since unsealed a detailed 73-page complaint. Defense counsel for Mahmoud stated Monday that they had not yet fully reviewed the document and would withhold comment until doing so.

Both suspects appeared in federal court this week. Further charges may be forthcoming, particularly if investigators identify additional individuals involved in planning or logistical support.

This case highlights continuing concerns about homegrown extremism and how young individuals may be radicalized online. It also raises alarms about extremist targeting of LGBTQ+ venues, major public events, and civilian gathering spaces — particularly during holidays.

As investigators continue examining digital evidence and interviewing potential accomplices, the case stands as a reminder that U.S. law enforcement remains concerned about ISIS-inspired radicalization within American borders, despite the organization’s territorial defeat abroad.