Oregon Teen Faces Terrorism, Attempted Murder Charges in School Chemical Incident
A 15-year-old faces 19 criminal counts after allegedly mixing chemicals in a high school cafeteria, leading to injuries and a significant law enforcement response.
PORTLAND, Ore. – A 15-year-old Benson Polytechnic High School student has been charged with domestic terrorism and attempted murder following a chemical incident in the school cafeteria that sent at least seven people to the hospital. The student faces 19 criminal counts in total, according to authorities.
The incident, which occurred on September 8, involved the teenager allegedly bringing chemicals from home and mixing them within the school, releasing toxic gases. Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez stated during an October 2 news conference that safety in schools is paramount and that threats of violence disrupt the entire community.
Investigators reported uncovering "concerning behaviors and statements" from the student prior to the incident, including an expressed interest in hazardous chemicals, explosives, and violence. Portland Police Bureau Public Information Manager Mike Benner confirmed these findings.
The charges against the unnamed teenager include 10 counts of attempted aggravated murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, one count of attempted second-degree murder, and one count each of first- and second-degree domestic terrorism. Additional charges involve unlawfully manufacturing and possessing a destructive device, possessing a weapon in a public building, unlawfully using a weapon, and recklessly endangering another person.
The district attorney's office intends to seek the case's transfer from juvenile court to adult court. Vasquez emphasized the need to ensure a safe environment for students and staff, noting the severity of the alleged actions.
Attorneys for the teen have denied the allegations, and he is reportedly receiving treatment at an inpatient mental health facility, The New York Times reported. Vasquez, however, criticized what he described as systemic failings within Oregon's juvenile justice system, particularly the age cap for oversight, arguing it does not adequately address potential long-term public safety risks.
The chemical release occurred shortly before 8:30 a.m., when many students and staff were in the vicinity. School personnel initiated immediate evacuation and provided initial medical treatment before first responders arrived. The student was transported to a hospital in critical condition but ultimately survived. Assistant Chief of Investigations Franz Schoening highlighted the critical role of the initial response in preventing further harm.
More than 100 students and staff were assessed following the incident, with at least seven requiring medical attention. Initial testing by the Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit, supervised by Sgt. Jim DeFrain, indicated the presence of hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas. An Oregon National Guard team corroborated this assessment, and samples were sent to an FBI laboratory for further analysis. The FBI is also examining electronic equipment seized during searches.
Vasquez stated that the investigation is ongoing and that any other individuals found to have been involved criminally could also face charges.