FBI Disrupts Teen's Alleged 'Serious' Mall Attack Plot Involving Explosives and Firearms
FBI arrests teen planning mass shooting with explosives at Washington mall.
Authorities in Columbia County, Oregon, have arrested a teenager accused of plotting a violent attack at a Washington state shopping mall, averting what the FBI called an "imminent threat" to public safety. The arrest, which took place on May 22, followed a swift investigation by federal and local agencies after the FBI received a tip regarding potential plans for a mass shooting and explosives use at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington.
According to officials, the alarming information came to light just two days before the juvenile suspect’s apprehension. Law enforcement deemed the threats credible and detailed, prompting immediate action. The unnamed teen, who resides in Columbia County, was placed under court-authorized surveillance, which culminated in a federally authorized search and subsequent arrest by sheriff’s deputies.
The FBI reported that the suspect had shared extremist ideology and specific attack plans through online communications. Investigators uncovered that the teen meticulously researched the mall, including creating a map and outlining a planned route through the shopping center. Authorities say the intent was to deploy a homemade chlorine bomb to sow chaos, target moviegoers with gunfire as they evacuated the premises, and ultimately take their own life at a predetermined site within the mall.
“This plot was as serious as it gets,” emphasized FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “We, along with our partners, moved swiftly to interrupt this violent plan and to protect our community.”
With the rapid intervention by law enforcement, no injuries resulted from the thwarted scheme. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office made the physical arrest, while the Columbia County District Attorney’s office is moving forward with prosecution on state charges. Federal officials underscored the importance of timely reporting and strong inter-agency cooperation in preventing potential tragedies.
The FBI has urged the public to remain vigilant and to contact authorities with any suspicious activity, particularly regarding online behavior. Officials also advised parents to stay engaged with their children about internet use and digital communication, stressing the critical role families play in detecting early signs of radicalization or dangerous planning.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to work to ensure the safety of the community and to understand the full scope of the foiled plot.
