A routine traffic stop in Delaware prevented what authorities describe as a potential massacre targeting campus police, revealing the chilling reality of homegrown terror plots infiltrating American universities.
Story Highlights
- University of Delaware student arrested with illegal machinegun and detailed attack plans
- Traffic stop uncovered weapons cache, body armor, and martyrdom references in notebook
- FBI describes incident as “close call” that prevented devastating campus attack
- Student targeted University of Delaware Police Department with diagrams and tactical notes
Terror Plot Foiled by Alert Law Enforcement
On December 2, 2025, what began as a routine traffic violation stop in Newark, Delaware, exposed a sophisticated terror plot that could have devastated the University of Delaware campus. Student Luqmaan Khan was arrested after officers discovered a Glock handgun equipped with an illegal “switch” device converting it to full-auto capability, body armor, and 27 rounds of ammunition in his vehicle. This discovery triggered a federal investigation that uncovered the true scope of Khan’s alleged plans.
Weapons Arsenal and Martyrdom Plans Discovered
Federal agents executing a search warrant at Khan’s residence uncovered additional firearms and a detailed notebook containing diagrams of the University of Delaware Police Department. Court documents reveal the notebook included references to martyrdom, warfare tactics, and specific targeting information for campus law enforcement officers. The presence of machinegun conversion devices represents a particularly dangerous escalation in domestic terror threats, as these devices can transform legal firearms into weapons of mass destruction.
Campus Security Under Siege
The University of Delaware Police Department, responsible for protecting over 20,000 students and staff, was the primary target of Khan’s alleged attack plan. This incident highlights the vulnerability of campus law enforcement, who often operate with limited resources compared to municipal police departments. The detailed nature of the attack plans, including building layouts and tactical considerations, demonstrates a level of premeditation that should alarm every parent with children in higher education.
Federal Response and Ongoing Investigation
The FBI has taken lead on the investigation, with agents describing the arrest as preventing a “close call” with potentially devastating consequences. Khan remains in federal custody facing multiple charges including possession of illegal firearms and conspiracy to commit terrorist acts. The case underscores the critical importance of routine law enforcement vigilance in preventing lone-wolf attacks that have become increasingly common in recent years.
This incident serves as a stark reminder that radical ideologies can take root anywhere, including on American college campuses. The discovery of martyrdom references in Khan’s materials suggests possible inspiration from extremist ideologies that view violence against law enforcement as justified. Under President Trump’s renewed focus on domestic security, such threats must be met with swift justice and enhanced protective measures for our communities and institutions.
Sources:
University of Delaware student: Martyrdom was goal, court papers say
Traffic Stop Foils Alleged Terror Attack Plot Against UD Police
