CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — A North Carolina man accused of planning a New Year’s Eve attack in support of the Islamic State group has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, federal officials said Friday.
According to the Justice Department, an 18‑year‑old identified as Christian Sturdivant was taken into custody after a criminal complaint was filed on Dec. 31 and unsealed following his initial court appearance in Charlotte. Prosecutors allege Sturdivant intended to use knives and hammers to carry out attacks at a grocery store and a fast‑food restaurant.
Federal officials said the investigation began after the FBI received information in December that Sturdivant had posted messages on social media expressing support for ISIS. According to the complaint, he later communicated with an undercover employee he believed was affiliated with the group and discussed plans to commit violence, including sending images of weapons and pledging loyalty to ISIS.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Sturdivant’s home on Dec. 29, where they reported finding handwritten notes outlining plans for a “New Year’s Attack 2026,” as well as knives, hammers, tactical gear, and a list of potential targets. Investigators said some of the items matched those he had previously shared online.
Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
