Florida teenager arrested over explosive-making materials and ISIS contact

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 22:32 · Archive

A 15-year-old Gainesville student has been arrested after authorities found chemicals and files related to explosives at his home.

A 15-year-old student at Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Florida has been arrested after the Alachua County Sheriff's Office and FBI discovered explosive-making materials at his home. Investigators began the joint investigation after learning the teen had been in online contact with members and supporters of ISIS, seeking guidance on building drones and explosives for an attack at an unidentified indoor location.

After obtaining consent from the teen's parents to search his phone, authorities found files containing instructions for making explosive devices and chemical compounds, as well as ISIS propaganda. During a subsequent search of his home, they discovered two jars in his bedroom. The teen told investigators the jars contained chemicals used to make TATP, a dangerous and unstable explosive. The Alachua County Bomb Squad responded to secure the materials and deemed the home safe after assessment.

The teenager was charged with making or attempting to make a destructive device. The sheriff's office stated that additional charges are possible as the investigation continues, and said it would not release further details due to the ongoing nature of the investigation and sensitive information involved.

How it is being reported

• High school student accused of trying to make bombs for ISIS, Alachua County deputies sayAlachua County Sheriff’s deputies say a 15-year-old was arrested after an investigation revealed he was attempting to make bombsWCTV · 27 Oct, 21:56
• Gainesville teen arrested after sheriff’s office, FBI find explosive-making materials, officials sayA 15-year-old was arrested Monday after investigators found chemicals and files related to explosives at his Gainesville home, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office said.News4Jax · 27 Oct, 16:43

In this story: Alachua County Sheriff's Office · FBI · Buchholz High School · Islamic State · Gainesville · Florida

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