In a significant development, the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of North Carolina have announced the arrest of an 18-year-old man from Mint Hill, North Carolina. Christian Sturdivant was apprehended for allegedly plotting to carry out a deadly attack on New Year’s Eve targeting a grocery store and a fast food restaurant in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). He has been charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, according to the criminal complaint that was filed on December 31, 2025, and unsealed today following Sturdivant’s appearance in federal court in Charlotte.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi commended the collaboration between federal and local law enforcement, stating, “This successful collaboration saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve.” She emphasized the Department of Justice's unwavering commitment to combating ISIS sympathizers, asserting that anyone plotting such heinous acts will face severe legal consequences.
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the importance of rapid information sharing among law enforcement agencies, noting that the FBI and its partners successfully thwarted Sturdivant's alleged plans. “The message from the FBI is clear — anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system,” he stated.
According to Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg, Sturdivant aspired to become a “martyr” for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack. Handwritten notes recovered from his residence detailed intentions to inflict harm on as many people as possible, posing a serious threat to public safety.
U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson expressed the importance of ensuring that Americans can celebrate New Year’s Eve safely, acknowledging the extensive efforts made by law enforcement during the holiday season to prevent this violent terrorist attack.
The investigation began on December 18, 2025, when the FBI received information that Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts supporting ISIS. One of his posts featured an image of Jesus figurines with a caption calling for the cursing of “cross worshipers,” consistent with ISIS propaganda advocating violence against non-believers.
The criminal complaint reveals that Sturdivant communicated with an undercover employee, whom he believed to be an ISIS member. He expressed his intent to engage in “jihad” and shared images of weapons, including hammers and knives, which align with ISIS's promotion of knife attacks in the West.
Sturdivant's plans reportedly involved targeting a specific grocery store and included discussions about acquiring firearms in addition to knives for the attack. On December 19, 2025, he allegedly sent a voice recording pledging allegiance to ISIS.
A search warrant executed on December 29, 2025, at Sturdivant’s home uncovered a variety of incriminating materials, including a document titled “New Years Attack 2026.” This document outlined his attack strategy, listing items such as tactical gloves and knives intended for use in the assault, with a goal to stab numerous civilians.
Despite living with a relative who attempted to secure dangerous items, law enforcement found multiple knives and hammers hidden in Sturdivant’s bedroom. These items matched those depicted in his earlier online communications, underscoring the seriousness of the threat he posed.
Sturdivant remains in federal custody, facing a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if convicted. A federal district court judge will determine his ultimate sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The investigation was a collaborative effort by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes various local and federal agencies, and was supported by the NYPD. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.
It is essential to note that the charges against Sturdivant are allegations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This case illustrates the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism and the critical importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to protect the community.