A 14-year-old boy in Columbia County, Oregon was arrested after FBI investigators uncovered his detailed plans to execute a mass shooting and bombing at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington.
At a Glance
- FBI prevented a planned mass shooting at Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington after receiving an online tip on May 19
- The 14-year-old suspect intended to detonate a chlorine bomb as a distraction before shooting moviegoers as they fled
- Authorities seized three handguns, ammunition, knives, and detailed attack plans including mall maps and routes
- The teen faces eight charges including first-degree attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms
- The suspect was linked to “nihilistic violent extremist” groups and had been planning the attack since early 2025
FBI Thwarts Imminent Threat After Online Tip
Federal investigators and local law enforcement acted swiftly after receiving a tip on May 19 about threatening posts in an online group chat. The subsequent investigation identified a 14-year-old Columbia County resident who had been meticulously planning a deadly attack on the Three Rivers Mall in neighboring Kelso, Washington. FBI officials confirmed the teen had established connections with “nihilistic violent extremist” groups and had been developing his attack plan since early 2025, showing clear signs of intent to follow through with the violence.
FBI and Columbia County sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant on May 22, leading to the teen’s arrest and the discovery of an arsenal that included three handguns, ammunition, and knives. Digital devices seized from the suspect’s residence contained detailed plans of the mall, including maps, routes, and strategies for maximizing casualties. The planned attack would have potentially claimed numerous innocent lives had authorities not intervened when they did.
Sophisticated Attack Plan Uncovered
Investigators discovered that the suspect had developed a comprehensive strategy involving both explosives and firearms. According to FBI reports, the teen planned to detonate a chlorine bomb as a diversion before systematically targeting patrons fleeing from a movie theater. The recovered evidence included explicit details about the construction of the improvised explosive device and a predetermined route through the shopping mall designed to maximize casualties before ultimately ending with the shooter’s suicide.
The 14-year-old was identified on May 20, just one day after the initial tip, demonstrating the urgency with which law enforcement approached the threat. Douglas A. Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Portland field office, emphasized the seriousness of the situation during a press conference announcing the arrest. The swift coordination between federal and local agencies potentially prevented what officials described as an imminent attack that had progressed well beyond mere threats.
Legal Proceedings and Significance
The teen now faces eight serious charges, including first-degree attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms. Following his arrest, he was taken into custody by Columbia County juvenile authorities and scheduled for a court appearance. Questions remain about whether prosecutors will pursue charges against the suspect as a juvenile or an adult, given the severity and premeditated nature of the planned attack. The decision could significantly impact potential sentencing if the teenager is convicted.
Law enforcement officials have emphasized that this case highlights the critical importance of public vigilance and timely reporting of suspicious activities. The successful prevention of this potential tragedy demonstrates the effectiveness of the “see something, say something” approach to public safety. FBI investigators noted that without the initial tip about the online threats, they might not have identified the suspect before the attack was carried out, underscoring how community awareness remains a vital component in thwarting violent extremism.