Portland teen, 15, charged with attempted murder and domestic terrorism over school chemical release

Right · 2A 15-year-old student was charged on Oct. 2 with domestic terrorism and attempted murder after authorities said he released hazardous chemicals inside Benson Polytechnic High School in north-east Portland, Oregon, in September, prompting an evacuation. 1 2 Right · 2Portland Police Bureau officials said at an Oct. 2 news conference that he brought several toxic chemicals to the school, mixed them and inhaled the fumes in the cafeteria; he was taken to hospital in critical condition, received lifesaving care and survived. 1 2 Right · 1The charges include 10 counts of attempted aggravated murder, one count each of attempted first-degree and attempted second-degree murder, and one count each of first- and second-degree domestic terrorism, plus counts of unlawfully manufacturing and possessing a destructive device, possessing a weapon in a public building, unlawfully using a weapon and recklessly endangering another person. His name has not been released because of his age. 2

Right · 1Assistant Chief of Investigations Franz Schoening said the incident unfolded shortly before 8:30 a.m. with many students and staff nearby; teachers moved students away and the school nurse began treating the teen before first responders arrived. More than 100 students and staff were assessed after evacuating, and at least seven needed medical care. 2 Right · 1Sgt. Jim DeFrain, who supervises the investigation, said initial testing indicated hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas, and an Oregon National Guard team agreed; samples were sent to an FBI laboratory with results pending at the briefing, and the FBI was examining seized electronic equipment. 2 Right · 1Police spokesperson Mike Benner said investigators found "concerning behaviors and statements" before the incident, including an interest in hazardous chemicals, explosives and violence. 2

Right · 1Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez said his office would seek to move the case from juvenile to adult court, and criticised Oregon's juvenile system for ending oversight at age 25 even if a person remains dangerous. He said the investigation remains open and anyone else found to be involved could be charged. 2 Right · 1The teen's lawyers denied the allegations and said he is receiving treatment at an inpatient mental health facility, according to The New York Times as relayed by Fox News. 2