Feds Arrest Two in Foiled “Pumpkin” Plot Targeting Ferndale LGBTQ+ Nightclubs
Federal authorities arrested Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud in Dearborn, Michigan, after foiling an ISIS-inspired plot code-named “Pumpkin” to carry out a mass Halloween weekend shooting targeting LGBTQ+ nightclubs in Ferndale, the FBI said on Friday.
Key takeaways
- Arrests: Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, U.S. citizens and Michigan residents, are in federal custody on terrorism-related weapons charges.
- Alleged plan: The group reportedly timed an attack for Halloween and code-named it “pumpkin”; alleged targets included Ferndale LGBTQ+ nightclubs.
- Weapons and prep: Investigators allege purchases and practice with a shotgun, an AR-15–style rifle, a forced-reset trigger, tactical gear and more than 1,600 rounds.
- Legal status: Federal conspiracy counts carry penalties up to 15 years and fines; a detention hearing is set for November 10, 2025.
The arrests and alleged plot
Federal agents with the FBI Detroit office and the Joint Terrorism Task Force say they uncovered a domestic plot in which Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud conspired with others to plan a mass shooting at venues frequented by the LGBTQ+ community in Ferndale, a Detroit suburb. The conspirators allegedly called the plan “pumpkin” or “pumpkin day” to mark the Halloween timing.
Law enforcement released portions of the criminal complaint and said the arrests removed an imminent threat. The Ferndale Police Department worked closely with federal partners and stated there is “no active threat” to the public following the arrests; the department’s announcement is available via the Ferndale Police press release.
Who else was involved
Court documents identify at least one minor, listed as “Person 1”, and suggest up to five people may have been involved in planning or supporting the plot. Reports indicate encrypted messaging apps and social media were used to share extremist propaganda and coordinate plans. See reporting from ABC News coverage and other outlets for details.
Weapons, gear and preparation
Investigators allege the group acquired multiple weapons and accessories, including a shotgun, an AR-15–style rifle and a forced-reset trigger — a device prosecutors say can increase a firearm’s rate of fire. The complaint also cites tactical vests and more than 1,600 rounds of compatible ammunition. Authorities reported evidence of range practice and scouting of potential target locations.
Online activity and radicalization
Federal filings and media reports state the suspects used encrypted apps and social media to exchange ISIS propaganda and encourage violent action. Prosecutors say the communications and materials show intent to emulate foreign terrorist attacks when planning a domestic mass shooting; these online ties are central to the terrorism-related allegations.
Charges, potential penalties and court dates
Both Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud face federal counts alleging conspiracy to receive, transfer and attempt to transfer firearms and ammunition while knowing the weapons would be used to facilitate a terrorist act. The statutes cited carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison and fines that can reach $250,000. The defendants appeared in federal court and remain in custody pending a detention hearing set for November 10, 2025. See reporting from CBSAustin coverage and KATV coverage.
Law enforcement and political reaction
Federal and local officials praised the intelligence and cooperation that led to the arrests. Attorney General Pam Bondi publicly thanked law enforcement for preventing what she characterized as a potentially deadly attack. Local police highlighted the role of community tips and interagency cooperation in thwarting the plot.
“The Ferndale Police Department worked closely with federal partners and there is no active threat to the community,” the department wrote in its public statement.
Community concerns and responses
Community leaders and LGBTQ+ advocates expressed relief that a potential mass-casualty attack was averted but emphasized ongoing concerns about targeted threats to identity-based venues. Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity to local police or the FBI tip line.
Investigative gaps and what remains unknown
Prosecutors have released only portions of the complaint; many details remain under seal. Officials have not publicly identified all alleged co-conspirators or detailed every communication cited in the files. It is also unclear publicly how long federal agents had been investigating the group or which tip or evidence led to the arrests. For ongoing reporting and official releases, see the Ferndale Police press release and national coverage such as ABC News coverage.
Sources and public documents
Reporting and public items cited in this article include:
Implications for the United States
Economic: Disrupted plots can still strain local budgets because agencies may need to boost security and overtime at nightlife venues; businesses may face higher insurance and security costs.
Political: The arrests are likely to increase focus on domestic radicalization and calls for enhanced counterterrorism funding, improved information sharing, and potential legal reviews concerning youth access to gear and weapons.
Social and cultural: An alleged ISIS-inspired plot directed at LGBTQ+ nightclubs underscores how foreign extremist narratives can intersect with local targeting of identity groups, and may fuel national discussions about online radicalization among young people.
Practical advice for residents and venues
- Report concerns: Citizens should report suspicious activity to local police or the FBI tip line.
- Venue preparedness: Operators should review entry screening, staff training and emergency plans.
- Parents and schools: Be alert to online influences and report troubling behavior to authorities.
Ongoing investigation
Federal prosecutors, the FBI and local police continue to gather evidence as they prepare the case against Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud. This remains a developing story; readers should consult the cited sources and official press releases for updates.
