Chicago man charged with obstruction of justice in connection to White House UFC attack plot
Prosecutors say Alexander Iniguez Mercado deleted Signal messages after an FBI call, making evidence unavailable in a probe that has led to seven other charges.
- On Thursday, authorities arrested 20-year-old Chicago resident Alexander Iniguez Mercado on an obstruction of justice charge related to an alleged plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House.
- Investigators allege Mercado served as a Signal messaging group administrator planning the attack; after an FBI special agent inquired about travel plans, he denied involvement and uninstalled the application.
- Seven other individuals from across the United States face charges for the alleged plot, which the Department of Justice said involved using drones and snipers to target senior government officials and wealthy attendees.
- Attorney Andrew Boutros called the obstruction "a profoundly serious offense," noting the investigation involved threats to President Donald Trump and event attendees. Mercado faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
- Secret Service Acting SAC Morley emphasized that protecting the President is the agency's "highest priority," citing the need for vigilance and collaboration amid the current heightened threat environment.
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Eighth Suspect Charged in Plot to Attack President Trump’s White House UFC Event
The Justice Department announced another arrest this week in the case surrounding an alleged plot to launch a violent attack on the Ultimate Fighting Championship event at President Trump’s White House. On June 26, 2026, the DOJ said Alexander Iniguez Mercado, 20, of Chicago, was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice in connection with the planned attack on the Freedom 250 UFC event. An indictment was returned Thursday in the U.S. Dis…
Illinois Quick Hits: Chicago man arrested in connection with planned attack at White House
(The Center Square) – A Chicago man has been arrested in connection with a planned attack that allegedly targeted the Ultimate Fighting Championship event at the White House on June
Chicago man charged in connection to alleged UFC event attack plot at White House
CHICAGO — A Chicago man has been federally charged with obstruction of justice in connection to the alleged plot to attack the UFC event at the White House. Alexander Iniguez Mercado, 20, of Chicago, is accused of being an administrator and member of Signal messaging groups. The indictment states the group included members who appeared [...]
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