A 14-year-old boy from Kennewick, Washington, is facing attempted murder charges after authorities received a tip from Florida suggesting he was planning a mass shooting. The teenager, identified as Mason Bently-Ray Ashby, made his first appearance in juvenile court on Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to a total of 13 charges, including attempted murder. The charges stem from social media posts he made in late September, in which he allegedly disclosed plans for a “massacre” at Kamiakan High School.
Court documents indicate that Ashby allegedly posted a color-coded map of the school on TikTok, featuring labels such as “gear up,” “targets,” “potential targets,” “glass,” “be wary of,” and “exit.” A Florida resident reportedly saw the post on September 19 and alerted the FBI. After determining the location of the poster, the FBI contacted the Kennewick Police Department.
The subsequent police investigation traced the cell phone data associated with the post back to Ashby, a freshman at Kamiakan High School. A search of Ashby’s home reportedly uncovered a hard copy of a similar color-coded map with additional notes, such as “10:47 – 11:25 AM peak students” and “could shoot through windows.” Authorities also seized Ashby’s phone and computer and allegedly found suspected drugs at the scene. Additionally, 24 guns locked in safes were confiscated.
Reports indicate that police discovered a video of Ashby allegedly scouting the school, where he stated that he could shoot through the library’s windows. Several photos and videos of Ashby handling at least 11 of the 24 guns found in his home were also reportedly discovered. Police also found a screenshot of a so-called manifesto allegedly written by Ashby.
Ashby allegedly involved another 14-year-old in his plans, who was arrested for illegal gun possession, tampering with evidence, and making a false statement to police. The police investigation revealed a gathering where Ashby allegedly brought a loaded Glock pistol, reported missing by his grandparents after his arrest.
Court documents reveal that the second 14-year-old sent a text discussing disposing of the Glock two days after Ashby’s arrest. The missing Glock was later found at a local mall. The second teenager pleaded guilty to all three charges in juvenile court, receiving a sentence of 40 days in juvenile detention, 12 months probation, and 25 hours of community service. He also lost his right to own guns for life.
During Ashby’s court appearance, Benton County District Attorney Eric Eisinger stated that he could not charge Ashby, who turns 15 this month, as an adult. Ashby was charged with attempted murder, 11 counts of second-degree possession of handguns, and a threat to harm property.