Feds arrest two in thwarted ISIS-inspired Michigan terror plot codenamed “pumpkin” that allegedly targeted Ferndale LGBTQ+ nightclubs
Federal authorities arrested Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud after thwarting a purported ISIS‑inspired plot codenamed “pumpkin” that allegedly targeted LGBTQ+ nightclubs on Ferndale’s Woodward Avenue during Halloween weekend 2025, seizing weapons, ammunition and digital evidence.
Key takeaways
- Two men arrested: Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud, both U.S. citizens from Dearborn, Michigan; court filings reference at least three other co‑conspirators, including a juvenile called “Person 1” (KOMO, ABC News, WXYZ).
- Planned target and timing: Nightclubs along Woodward Avenue in Ferndale, planned for Halloween weekend 2025; the operation was referred to as “pumpkin” and “pumpkin day” (ABC News, WXYZ).
- Weapons and training: Authorities allege the suspects acquired a shotgun, an AR‑15–style rifle, a forced‑reset trigger, tactical gear and over 1,600 rounds, and practiced at gun ranges (ABC News, WXYZ).
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Investigation overview and timeline
Federal agents say the probe began months before the Oct. 31 arrests. The FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force worked with the Ferndale Police Department to track a group exchanging ISIS‑related material and operational plans on encrypted apps, according to court filings and law enforcement statements (ABC News).
Officials say the group scouted Ferndale locations on Sept. 19 and 20, 2025, identified nightclubs along Woodward Avenue as potential targets, and used the code name “pumpkin”, with “pumpkin day” used as a euphemism for the planned attack (WXYZ).
Weapons, gear and training
Searches connected to the case allegedly turned up:
- a shotgun and an AR‑15–style rifle;
- a forced‑reset trigger device (which can increase the fire rate of a semi‑automatic weapon);
- tactical vests, gear and >1,600 rounds of compatible ammunition;
- digital records of weapons purchases and range practice.
Prosecutors say the defendants received and transferred firearms and arranged ammunition deliveries while knowing the items would be used in a federal terrorism offense; the charges focus on weapons transactions and conspiracy rather than a completed attack (KOMO).
Arrests, charges and court status
Arrests: The FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force executed search warrants and arrested Mohmed Ali and Majed Mahmoud on Oct. 31, 2025, after months of investigation. Local authorities caution the probe is active and additional arrests or charges may follow (Ferndale Police Department press release, KOMO).
Charges: Federal prosecutors charged the men with receiving, transferring and conspiring to transfer firearms and ammunition knowing they would be used in a federal terrorism crime. Each charge carries up to 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted (KOMO, WXYZ).
Court status: Both men appeared in federal court on Nov. 3, 2025; detention hearings were set for Nov. 10, and both remain in custody pending further proceedings (KOMO, ABC News).
Scope of the alleged conspiracy
The FBI’s criminal complaint names five people believed to be involved: Ali, Mahmoud, two other adults and a juvenile. Encrypted chats reportedly showed the group describing themselves as “brothers” and coordinating purchases, scouting and training. Officials say the investigation remains active and additional charges or arrests could follow (WXYZ, Ferndale Police Department press release, KOMO).
Local law enforcement reaction
Ferndale police publicly thanked the FBI and partner agencies and reassured residents there was no ongoing threat after the arrests. The department highlighted the importance of interagency cooperation to stop violence before it occurs (Ferndale Police Department press release).
Community impact and concerns
City leaders and community organizations in Ferndale and the Detroit area expressed relief that authorities intervened before Halloween weekend. At the same time, the case has intensified concerns about violent plots aimed at LGBTQ+ venues and the spread of extremist material online — described by investigators as “ISIS‑inspired” (ABC News).
Why the case matters nationally
This alleged plot underscores how small local networks can be influenced by global extremist movements and leverage encrypted tools to plan violence. Federal efforts increasingly target homegrown violent extremism and the role of encryption in plotting; these charges focus on preventing attacks by prosecuting weapons transfers and conspiracy (KOMO, ABC News).
Implications for Fresno, California
Economic: A high‑profile terror plot, even when stopped, can affect nightlife and small businesses; owners may invest more in security and event precautions.
Political: Local officials might review public safety plans and interagency communication with federal partners.
Social & cultural: Fresno’s LGBTQ+ community could experience heightened worry; community groups, faith leaders and schools may increase outreach and education to counter hate.
Practical steps: Businesses should review emergency plans and staff training; residents can report suspicious activity and use community hotlines; parents should talk with youth about online safety and extremism.
Local coordination: Agencies are encouraged to share best practices — threat reporting, staff training for venues, and partnerships with LGBTQ+ groups — to reduce risk and build trust.
Sources and further reading
- KOMO: Two Michigan men face charges in thwarted Halloween mass shooting, FBI says ISIS-inspired plot in Dearborn was codenamed ‘pumpkin’
- ABC News: 2 U.S. citizens arrested in alleged ISIS-inspired Halloween plot
- WXYZ: 2 Dearborn men charged in alleged Halloween terror plot targeting Ferndale
- Ferndale Police Department press release
Reporting by Times Media Service in Dearborn, Michigan. Additional reporting from ABC News, KOMO and WXYZ.
