Federal investigators say they stopped a planned Halloween terror attack targeting LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs in downtown Ferndale.
According to court documents, 20-year-olds Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, both from Dearborn, were inspired by ISIS ideology and spent weeks scouting potential targets along Woodward Avenue near East 9 Mile Road. The FBI says a juvenile co-conspirator also took part in planning.
Agents arrested the men Friday after tracking their encrypted messages, social media activity, and visits to gun ranges in Belleville. Searches of homes and a storage unit uncovered AR-15-style rifles, tactical vests, and more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition.
Ferndale’s SOHO bar issued a statement calling the alleged plot “abhorrent” and praising law enforcement for protecting the community. Local leaders, including Julia Music, executive director of Ferndale Pride, told WXYZ Detroit the incident will shape future security plans for next year’s event.
“This is deeply disturbing, especially knowing they were looking at a specific date when so many people would be together,” Music said.
While no attacks occurred, officials say the arrests prevented a tragedy similar to Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub shooting in 2016. The suspects remain in federal custody pending a November 10 hearing.
Source: Associated Press, WXYZ Detroit
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