Feds Arrest Two More in “Pumpkin” ISIS-Inspired Plot Targeting LGBTQ+ Nightclubs in Ferndale
Federal authorities arrested two Michigan men in a foiled ISIS-inspired plot codenamed “pumpkin” that aimed to target LGBTQ+ nightclubs in Ferndale and Detroit during Halloween weekend, according to court filings and local law enforcement officials.
Key takeaways
- Two U.S. citizens arrested: Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud were taken into custody Oct. 31, 2025, in a case federal officials say involved an ISIS-inspired plan codenamed “pumpkin.” Sources: KFOX-TV, ABC News, Ferndale Police press release.
- Encrypted planning and propaganda: Investigators say the conspirators used encrypted communications, shared ISIS propaganda, and discussed the plot online as “pumpkin” or “pumpkin day.” Sources: KFOX-TV, ABC News.
- Weapons and ammunition recovered: Agents seized rifles, shotguns, handguns, tactical gear and more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition during raids. Source: ABC News.
- Federal charges and penalties: Both defendants face federal counts for receiving, transferring and conspiring to transfer firearms and ammunition intending to commit a federal crime of terrorism, carrying potential penalties up to 15 years and $250,000 fines. Sources: KFOX-TV, KATV.
Main story
Investigation and arrests
Federal prosecutors and the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force say the investigation began after agents identified online activity tied to ISIS propaganda and encrypted messages discussing violence planned for Halloween weekend. Court documents allege conspirators used the nickname “pumpkin” and referenced “pumpkin day” as the intended date for the attack. Sources include KFOX-TV and ABC News.
On Oct. 31, FBI agents arrested Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud in a coordinated operation. The Ferndale Police Department confirmed the arrests and said the suspects had scouted nightlife venues in Ferndale and Detroit that serve the LGBTQ+ community. Officials emphasized that no active threat remains following the arrests while the probe continues.
Targets and reconnaissance
Court filings and the Ferndale press release state the defendants conducted reconnaissance on bars and nightclubs popular with LGBTQ+ patrons. Investigators found evidence the men discussed attacking specific venues in Ferndale and Detroit during Halloween weekend — a timing that could have resulted in higher casualties due to larger crowds. Sources include the Ferndale Police press release, the Detroit Free Press and KFOX-TV.
Weapons, training and evidence
The federal complaint alleges the suspects purchased a shotgun, an AR-15–style rifle and a forced reset trigger device intended to increase firing speed. Authorities say the men practiced at several Michigan shooting ranges to enhance their readiness. During search warrants, agents recovered multiple AR-15–style rifles, shotguns, handguns, tactical vests and more than 1,600 rounds of compatible ammunition. (Source: ABC News.)
Law enforcement highlights the mix of weapons, gear and extremist online material — chat transcripts, posts and other records included in the complaint — as evidence of planning and intent. Additional reporting and federal statements are referenced in ABC News and KATV.
Scope of the conspiracy
Investigators identified at least two primary suspects, a minor described as “Person 1” in filings, and up to three additional co-conspirators. Officials caution the investigation is ongoing and could reveal additional individuals or related activity. The case underscores concerns about online radicalization and the role of encrypted communications in planning violence. Sources: KFOX-TV, KATV, ABC News.
Charges, possible penalties and court dates
Federal prosecutors charged Ali and Mahmoud with receiving, transferring, attempting and conspiring to transfer firearms and ammunition while knowing they would be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism. If convicted, each faces up to 15 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Initial detention hearings were set for Nov. 10, 2025, according to filings and reporting. Sources: KFOX-TV, KATV.
Community response and official statements
Law enforcement leaders praised the swift action by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force and local police for disrupting a threat described as serious and specific. The Ferndale Police Department posted a press release reassuring residents there is no active threat and urging anyone with information to contact authorities. Officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, publicly commended the arrests and investigative work. Sources: Ferndale Police, ABC News.
“There is no active threat at this time,” the Ferndale Police Department said in its press release, while urging community members to report any relevant information.
Implications for Utah
Although the arrests occurred in Michigan, the case carries nationwide lessons for law enforcement and communities, including in Utah:
- Security readiness: State and local agencies should review threat-monitoring, intelligence sharing with federal partners and Joint Terrorism Task Force coordination. (Source: ABC News.)
- Venue protection: Schools, places of worship, entertainment districts and holiday events should reassess access control, emergency exits and liaison plans with law enforcement. (Source: Ferndale Police press release.)
- Countering radicalization: Community outreach, education on signs of radicalization and safe reporting channels can reduce homegrown extremism without stigmatizing groups. (Sources: KFOX-TV, ABC News.)
- Firearms policy and enforcement: The use of high-capacity accessories and forced reset devices prompts review of enforcement priorities and dealer vigilance while balancing constitutional considerations. (Source: ABC News.)
- Political messaging: Leaders should emphasize law enforcement effectiveness and community protection while avoiding rhetoric that unfairly targets Muslim Americans or other minorities. (Source: KATV.)
Sources and further reading
Reporting and documents referenced in this article:
- KFOX-TV: Two Michigan men face charges in thwarted Halloween mass shooting, FBI says; ISIS, ‘pumpkin,’ firearms and ammunition mentioned
- KATV: Two Michigan men face charges in thwarted Halloween mass shooting
- ABC News: 2 US citizens arrested in alleged ISIS-inspired Halloween plot
- Ferndale Police Department press release
- Detroit Free Press coverage of court documents and local reaction
Ongoing investigation and contact
This remains an active federal investigation. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan or local law enforcement. Community members with tips should report them promptly to assist investigators.
