A recent incident at a high school cafeteria in Oregon has escalated into a serious case involving domestic terrorism and attempted murder, centered around a student who was critically injured. The 15-year-old from Benson Polytechnic High School faces 19 criminal charges after it was reported that he brought chemicals from home and mixed them on campus on September 8, which resulted in the release of toxic gases threatening the safety of students and staff.
During a news conference on October 2, Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez emphasized that safety in schools shouldn’t be up for negotiation. He remarked that acts of violence or the mere threat of it extend beyond school grounds and into the homes of affected families.
Before the incident, investigators had noticed “concerning behaviors and statements” from the teenager, highlighting his interest in hazardous materials and violence, according to Mike Benner, Public Information Manager for the Portland Police Bureau.
The charges against the unnamed teenager, who is not being identified due to his age, include ten counts of attempted aggravated murder, one count each of attempted first-degree and second-degree murder, along with one count each of first-degree and second-degree domestic terrorism.
In addition, he faces charges for illegally manufacturing and possessing a destructive device, carrying a weapon in a public space, unlawfully using a weapon, and recklessly endangering others. His defense attorneys have denied the accusations and indicated that he is currently undergoing treatment at an inpatient mental health facility.
Vasquez also stated his intention to move the case to adult court, underscoring the need to ensure safety for all students and staff. He acknowledged that while these individuals are teenagers, they are still children deserving of a secure environment.
However, he criticized the broader shortcomings of Oregon’s juvenile justice system, which ceases oversight at age 25, even for individuals who may still pose a public danger. Vasquez expressed concern that this policy overlooks the potential risks from individuals with histories of severe criminal behavior, like multiple homicides or acts of domestic terrorism.
The chemical incident occurred just before 8:30 a.m., with a number of students and staff present in close proximity to the student in question, noted Assistant Chief of Investigations Franz Schoening. Fortunately, teachers and administrators quickly moved students away, and the school nurse initiated treatment for the teenager until first responders arrived. He was transported to a hospital in critical condition but ultimately survived.
Schoening highlighted the importance of those first moments in preventing greater harm, as over 100 students and staff were evaluated after evacuation, with at least seven requiring medical assistance. Initial testing indicated the presence of hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas, and this was corroborated by an assessment from an Oregon National Guard team. Samples were sent to an FBI laboratory for additional testing, with results still pending when the information was released.
The FBI is also examining electronic devices collected during the investigation, which remains active. Vasquez mentioned that if further links or individuals to be charged come to light, his office will take appropriate action against them.
