By Harshit, DETROIT, November 1, 2025 7 AM EDT
Federal authorities say they have disrupted a potential terrorist attack planned for Halloween weekend in Michigan, following weeks of covert surveillance and online monitoring of individuals allegedly inspired by ISIS. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed Friday that multiple suspects were arrested in a coordinated operation launched from the bureau’s Detroit field office.
‘Pumpkin Day’ and Online Extremism
According to two senior law enforcement officials briefed on the investigation, the alleged plot unfolded in online chatrooms frequented by young extremists. Investigators discovered cryptic messages referencing “pumpkin day” — believed to be a coded reference to Halloween — and discussions of carrying out an ISIS-inspired act of violence somewhere in the United States.
The FBI reportedly infiltrated the group early in its formation through an undercover operative who gained access to the chatroom. Over time, participants debated potential targets and timing, though no specific location or plan was finalized.
“This all relates to an investigation that started months ago into individuals communicating both domestically and with potential ISIS-linked contacts overseas,” CNN law enforcement analyst John Miller explained. “What they were plotting and where it would occur was still fluid.”
Arrests Made in Dearborn and Inkster
The FBI’s Detroit field office carried out pre-dawn raids in the Michigan cities of Dearborn and Inkster, taking multiple individuals into custody and executing search warrants at homes and a local storage facility.
“Last night and through this morning, the FBI took people into custody, executed warrants, and seized phones, computers, and weapons,” Miller said.
Two individuals — both males between the ages of 16 and their early 20s — were arrested, while three others were being questioned. Federal officials have not disclosed their identities or the specific charges filed against them.
Spokesperson Jordan Hall from the FBI’s Detroit office confirmed that “law enforcement activities” were underway but emphasized that “there is no current threat to public safety.”
Weapons Training Raised Alarms
What prompted the FBI to move in this week, officials say, was a trip the suspects took to a shooting range, where they practiced high-speed reloads with AK-47 rifles and fired large quantities of ammunition.
Authorities monitoring their communications observed conversations suggesting readiness to act, with one younger member urging the group to move forward despite others saying they needed more preparation.
During this phase of the investigation, references to “pumpkin day” appeared again — the final trigger that led federal agents to take immediate action.
Law enforcement sources also revealed that the group had discussed taking a sightseeing trip to New York City, mentioning Rockefeller Center and the Statue of Liberty. While no plans for an attack were linked to that discussion, the exchange caught the attention of both the FBI and NYPD.
‘No Threat to the Community,’ Officials Reassure
The Dearborn Police Department said it was aware of the FBI’s operations within the city and reassured residents that there was no ongoing threat. Similarly, Inkster Police Chief Tamika L. Jenkins confirmed that federal agents had searched a storage facility on Michigan Avenue, adding that extra officers would patrol neighborhoods during Halloween festivities “to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer praised the swift response of federal and state law enforcement.
“I was briefed by Director Patel on the thwarted potential terrorist attack in our state,” she said in a post on X. “As details continue to develop, I am grateful for the FBI and Michigan State Police protecting Michiganders.”
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have not released any information about potential targets, nor whether the suspects were acting under the direction of a foreign terror group. However, investigators continue to analyze seized electronic devices for evidence of communication with overseas contacts.
The case underscores ongoing concerns among U.S. counterterrorism officials about homegrown extremism and online radicalization, particularly among younger individuals drawn into encrypted messaging groups.
As of Friday evening, authorities said the suspects remained in custody while federal prosecutors reviewed possible charges under anti-terrorism statutes. The investigation remains active, and further arrests have not been ruled out.