A Texas mother was arrested for allegedly purchasing ammunition and tactical gear for her son, who authorities say planned “mass targeted violence” at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School in San Antonio, according to a Bexar County arrest affidavit.
Ashley Pardo, 33, faces one count of aiding in the commission of terrorism after police found tactical gear, ammunition, and an improvised explosive device at her home, which she allegedly provided to her son in exchange for babysitting his younger siblings.
“It has been expressed to the Defendant the concerns of her child’s expression and desire to commit acts of mass violence,” the affidavit stated about Pardo, per CBS News. “The Defendant expressed to the school her support of [her son’s] violent expressions and drawings and does not feel concerned for his behavior.”
The investigation began in January when school staff discovered a map drawn by Pardo’s son, labeled “suicide route,” depicting Rhodes Middle School with a rifle. The boy, unnamed in the affidavit, admitted to a “fascination with past mass shooters.”
In April, he was suspended for researching the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, which killed 51 people, on a school computer. He attempted suicide that day, requiring over 100 stitches, and attended an alternative school until May 7.
On Sunday, the boy’s grandmother caught him hitting a live bullet with a hammer. She reported to police that Pardo had given him ammunition and taken him to a surplus store to buy magazines, a tactical vest, a helmet, and army clothing.
On Monday, he told his grandmother he was “going to be famous” before arriving at school in a mask, camouflage jacket, and tactical pants, leaving shortly after. His grandmother later found loaded magazines and a homemade explosive device — a duct-taped mortar firework — marked “For Brenton Tarrant,” referencing the Christchurch shooter, with “14 words” and “SS” symbols linked to white supremacist ideology.
The boy was detained off-campus and charged with terrorism, school officials said.
“Please know we take all potential threats seriously and act immediately to protect everyone in our care,” Principal Felismina Martinez wrote in a letter to parents, according to ABC News. “We will always remain vigilant to ensure our learning and working environment is safe and secure.”
Pardo, who police say was dismissive despite warnings from law enforcement, child protective services, and school officials, was released Tuesday after posting a $75,000 bond. Her next hearing is set for July 17.