In a turn of events that unfortunately aligns with America's history of thwarted mass violence, a juvenile was arrested in Columbia County, Oregon, for plotting an attack on Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington. The arrest came on May 22, 2025, preempting a planned onslaught that authorities say would have included both an explosion and a mass shooting.
The teen, whose identity has been shielded due to their age, drew the attention of the FBI and local law enforcement after sharing chilling details of the planned attack in online chats. According to a statement from the FBI, the plot was disclosed to them on May 19, 2025, and by the next day, they had identified the juvenile as the source of the threat. Not one to dawdle, the agency, with its partners, laid plans to execute a federal search warrant, which culminated in the individual's arrest.
Contained within the suspect's blueprint for destruction were a map of the mall, a sequence of events down to the pathway of the shooter, and specifics on using a chlorine bomb to spread chaos before targeting individuals in the mall. FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson called it "as serious as it gets," as reported by the FBI. Olson praised the collaborative efforts, saying, "We, along with our partners, moved swiftly to interrupt this violent plan and to protect our community."
The plan was disrupted before it could materialize, thanks in part to locals who reported it. Even with the immediate threat quelled, the larger societal ailment remains. The FBI has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Echoing this sentiment, they've also highlighted the crucial role parents play in monitoring their children's online activities and steering conversations towards the impact and influence digital exchanges can have. The case now rests with the Columbia County District Attorney's office for prosecution.
