A Texas woman, Ashley Pardo, 33, was arrested and charged with aiding in the commission of terrorism after allegedly providing her son with weapons and military gear. The boy, whose age has not been disclosed, reportedly had aspirations of committing a mass act of violence at his middle school, Rhodes Middle School in San Antonio. The arrest was made following the discovery of a live bullet the boy was attempting to hit with a hammer, according to an affidavit.
The boy’s grandmother, who occasionally cared for him, found the bullet and questioned him about its origin. He revealed that his mother had given it to him and that she had additional firearms and ammunition at her home. Upon searching the boy’s room, the grandmother discovered a makeshift explosive device, a rifle, and magazines loaded with live ammunition.
In addition to the weaponry, a handwritten note was found that referenced previous mass shootings, including the names of the perpetrators and the number of victims. The note also contained references to white supremacist symbolism, including the phrase “14 words,” and the name of the shooter who carried out the 2019 mosque attack in Christchurch, New Zealand, which resulted in 51 deaths.
The boy reportedly told his grandmother that he was going to become famous before leaving for school dressed in a camouflage jacket, tactical pants, and a mask. Upon his arrival at school, he was detained off-campus and charged with terrorism. Rhodes Middle School Principal Felismina Martinez assured parents in a letter that all potential threats are taken seriously and immediate action is taken to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
Investigations into the boy’s behavior began in January after school officials raised concerns about his drawings, which included a map labeled “suicide route” and the school’s name next to a rifle. The boy admitted to having a fascination with past mass shooters. In April, he was suspended for researching the Christchurch mosque shooting on a school-issued laptop. That same day, he attempted suicide, resulting in significant injuries and over 100 stitches.
Pardo was aware of her son’s behavior and had been in contact with local law enforcement, child protective services, and school officials. Despite this, she allegedly dismissed his alarming behavior and defended his violent drawings. Pardo was released on a $75,000 bond and is due to appear in court on July 17.