Feds Arrest Two in Foiled ‘Pumpkin’ Halloween Plot Targeting Ferndale LGBTQ Nightclubs
Federal authorities arrested two Dearborn men after foiling an ISIS-inspired plot codenamed “pumpkin” that targeted LGBTQ+ nightclubs on Woodward Avenue in Ferndale during Halloween weekend 2025, seizing weapons and ammunition and preventing a mass-casualty attack.
Key takeaways
- Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, U.S. citizens from Dearborn, were arrested in the FBI-led disruption.
- The plot was codenamed “pumpkin” and aimed at LGBTQ venues on Woodward Avenue in Ferndale during Halloween weekend.
- Authorities seized an arsenal including AR-15–style weapons, tactical gear and more than 1,600 rounds of compatible ammunition, and identified practice sessions at local ranges.
- Federal charges allege weapons transfers in furtherance of terrorism; penalties could include up to 15 years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000 per defendant.
Arrests and charges
Federal agents took Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud into custody after an investigation involving surveillance, searches and review of online communications. Investigators reported evidence of planning activity, weapons purchases, range practice and exchanges of extremist propaganda.
According to court filings and local reporting, the men appeared in federal court on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, and remain held pending a detention hearing scheduled for Nov. 10.
The “pumpkin” plot and target selection
Court documents state the conspirators referred to the planned attack as “pumpkin” or “pumpkin day”, choosing Halloween weekend to ensure crowded nightlife. Investigators say members conducted surveillance of LGBTQ-friendly bars and clubs along Woodward Avenue in Ferndale, and that the timing and locations were selected to maximize harm.
The scheme is described as ISIS-inspired, with exchanges of extremist material and communications that promoted attacks on civilian gatherings. Online activity and encrypted messaging were central to investigators’ case-building efforts.
Weapons, practice and materials seized
The criminal complaint alleges purchases of multiple firearms — including an AR-15–style rifle and a shotgun — use of a forced-reset trigger, tactical vests, and accumulation of more than 1,600 rounds of AR-15–compatible ammunition. Reports say agents recovered rifles, shotguns, handguns, tactical gear and the ammunition during searches.
Investigators also identified practice sessions at southeast Michigan ranges, including Downriver Guns in Belleville, where surveillance images were collected as evidence. Prosecutors assert the breadth of the arsenal and training point to intent for a mass-casualty attack.
Investigation, co-conspirators and online activity
Court filings reference additional people involved in planning, including at least one juvenile identified as “Person 1” and other unnamed co-conspirators. Public reporting confirms the two arrests to date but notes the complaint mentions others who communicated about the plot (CBSAustin).
The FBI has said the group used encrypted platforms and social media to share ISIS-related content and to encourage violence. Those communications formed part of the evidence that enabled agents to move quickly and disrupt the operation.
Law enforcement statements and community safety
Ferndale Police Department released a statement saying there was “no active threat” to the public following the arrests and encouraged anyone with information to contact federal authorities.
Local officials and national leaders praised the FBI and partner agencies for their work. Attorney General Pam Bondi publicly thanked investigators, saying proactive action likely saved lives. Community groups, including organizers of Ferndale PRIDE, expressed deep concern that LGBTQ patrons were targeted on a holiday night meant for celebration and urged vigilance and support for the community (Ferndale Police Department press release).
Potential penalties, court schedule and ongoing investigation
The federal counts focus on the receipt and attempted transfer of firearms and ammunition knowing they would be used to commit terrorism. If convicted, the defendants face penalties that could include up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $250,000 per defendant, according to reporting and prosecutor statements (CBSAustin).
Both men remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing; the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan is handling the prosecution and the broader probe remains active.
Clarification on “two additional suspects”
Some reports referenced unnamed co-conspirators and a minor involved in discussions. As of the latest public reporting, federal charges have been filed only against Ali and Mahmoud; officials have not confirmed the arrest or charging of two additional adult suspects in open court filings (CBSAustin; WXYZ).
The complaint’s mention of others may reflect a broader network investigators have identified; additional arrests or charges could follow as the FBI continues to review evidence (ABC News).
Implications for the Inland Empire, California
Local safety and community resilience: The Ferndale plot and its disruption have implications beyond Michigan — from economic effects on nightlife and tourism to social and political responses in regions such as the Inland Empire.
Practical steps for local stakeholders:
- Review venue emergency plans, surveillance, and staff training.
- Coordinate tabletop exercises and rapid communication links with federal partners.
- Increase outreach and visible support for LGBTQ communities to counter fear and isolation.
- Balance security messaging with efforts to avoid stigmatizing whole communities.
Resources and further reading
Reporting and official materials include coverage and statements from national and local outlets: ABC News; CBS Austin coverage; the Ferndale Police Department press release; and WXYZ reporting.
What to watch next
Investigators emphasize the probe remains active. Officials ask anyone with tips or relevant information to contact the FBI or local law enforcement as agencies continue to piece together the full scope of the plot and identify any additional people involved.
