North Texas Teen Arrested for Planning ISIS-Inspired Attack
Officials said in an arrest affidavit that the suspect had talked online with an FBI source beginning in December 2017 and told the informant that he wanted to carry out a terrorist attack. He mentioned to the FBI source that he’d considered traveling to Pakistan and crossing the border into Afghanistan to join the Islamic State.
- By Jessica Davis
- May 03, 2018
A 17-year-old North Texas Student has been arrested on suspicion of plotting an Islamic State-inspired mass shooting at a mall in Frisco, Texas, authorities announced Wednesday. According to authorities, the suspect planned to carry out the attack in mid-May with other participants.
The suspect was taken into custody Tuesday at Plano West Senior High School, where he is a student. Plano Independent Schools sent a letter to parents to inform them of the incident, noting that "The student was arrested without incident. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the offense for which the student was arrested was unrelated to Plano West, Plano ISD or any fellow students."
Officials said in an arrest affidavit that the suspect had talked online with an FBI source beginning in December 2017 and told the informant that he wanted to carry out a terrorist attack. He mentioned to the FBI source that he’d considered traveling to Pakistan and crossing the border into Afghanistan to join the Islamic State.
Investigators said that over the course of four months, he talked to two informants and an undercover agent about possible targets that included an unnamed school, a Hindu temple, and Stonebriar Centre Mall in Frisco, Texas. The suspect allegedly spent weeks staking out the mall, detailing the placement of security and outlining a strategy for a surprise attack on police.
According to authorities, the suspect had sent more than $1,400 to an informant for the purchase of tactical gear and weapons. He had also allegedly written a letter titled “Message to America” to explain his reasons for the planned attack.
The case was investigated by local police and the FBI.
"We are fortunate that the brave men and women of local and federal law enforcement work around the clock to prevent acts of terrorism and mass shootings," District Attorney Greg Willis said. "I'd like to thank the FBI's North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Frisco and Plano police departments for their efforts in this case and their vigilance in protecting the citizens of Collin County."
Under Texas law, if convicted, the suspect could face up to life in prison for criminal solicitation and up to 10 years for making a terroristic threat.
About the Author
Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.