Who is Christian Sturdivant? Mint Hill teen arrested for plotting ISIS-type attack in North Carolina
Christian Sturdivant
US law enforcement agencies say they prevented a potentially deadly terrorist attack planned for New Year’s Eve in North Carolina, arresting Christian Sturdivant, an 18-year-old accused of aligning himself with ISIS ideology and preparing a violent assault on public spaces.
Authorities announced the arrest on Friday, revealing that the suspect was taken into custody following a multi-agency investigation involving the FBI’s Charlotte field office, the US Department of Justice, the New York Police Department, and other federal partners. Officials say the operation disrupted what they describe as a credible and imminent threat aimed at crowded locations during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Who Is Christian Sturdivant?
Christian Sturdivant is a resident of Mint Hill, a suburb outside Charlotte, North Carolina. Federal prosecutors say he turned 18 in December and had allegedly been planning an attack timed to coincide with New Year’s Eve, when grocery stores and fast-food outlets are typically busy with shoppers and celebrants.
According to court filings, Sturdivant is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, after investigators concluded that he intended to carry out violence inspired by ISIS, which is designated as a terrorist group by the United States.
How Investigators Say the Plot Unfolded
The FBI says it received critical intelligence on December 18, 2025, indicating that Sturdivant had been repeatedly posting content supportive of ISIS on social media platforms. These posts raised immediate red flags and prompted closer surveillance.
Earlier in December, investigators say Sturdivant shared an image online depicting two small Jesus figurines alongside text calling for harm against Christians. Around the same period, he allegedly communicated with an individual he believed was connected to ISIS. In reality, authorities say the person was an undercover federal agent, referred to in court documents as an “online covert employee.”
In one message sent around December 12, Sturdivant allegedly declared, “I will do jihad soon,” and described himself as “a soldier of the state,” referring to ISIS. Two days later, investigators say he sent the undercover agent images of two hammers and a knife, along with messages discussing plans to acquire a firearm for use in the attack.
What Authorities Found
When agents executed a search warrant at Sturdivant’s home on December 29, 2025, they reportedly discovered two hammers, two butcher knives, and a handwritten document titled “New Year’s Attack 2026.” Prosecutors say the document outlined elements of the alleged plot and reinforced concerns that the plan was advancing toward execution.
Officials emphasized that all online communications Sturdivant believed were with ISIS affiliates were, in fact, with undercover agents from federal and NYPD cyber units. This coordination allowed authorities to monitor the suspect’s intentions while gathering evidence.
Statements From Officials
New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch said Sturdivant allegedly pledged allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted attacks in its name, underscoring the seriousness of the threat.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the joint operation, saying the collaboration between agencies “undoubtedly saved lives” by stopping the plan before it could be carried out.
A booking photo of Sturdivant was released by the Gaston County Sheriff’s Office following his arrest.
What Happens Next
Sturdivant has made his initial appearance in federal court and remains in custody. If convicted on the charge of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, he could face up to 20 years in prison.
Authorities say the case highlights the ongoing risk of online radicalization and the importance of intelligence sharing between local, state, and federal agencies—particularly during major public holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Christian Sturdivant?
Christian Sturdivant is an 18-year-old from Mint Hill, North Carolina, accused of plotting an ISIS-inspired attack.
What was the alleged target of the attack?
Authorities say the plan focused on a grocery store and a fast-food restaurant during New Year’s Eve.
How was the plot discovered?
The FBI received intelligence about pro-ISIS social media activity and used undercover agents to monitor the suspect.
What evidence was found?
Investigators recovered knives, hammers, and a handwritten plan titled “New Year’s Attack 2026.”
What charges does Sturdivant face?
He is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.
