Seattle – A 13-year-old boy has been arrested in Pierce County, Washington, after law enforcement discovered a significant cache of weapons in his home. Authorities say the boy had shown concerning behavior, including social media posts that suggested intentions to harm.
The arrest occurred early Saturday morning when a SWAT team executed a search warrant, finding 23 firearms and ammunition stored throughout the residence. The boy has pleaded not guilty to five charges, including felonies related to unlawful possession of firearms and making threats. He was ordered to remain in detention.
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, investigators uncovered alarming evidence in the boy’s room. Among various tactical-style rifles, they found AR-style magazines with notes that referenced infamous mass shootings, such as the tragic Columbine High School incident in 1999.
Social media activity linked to the boy raised further red flags, with posts showcasing weapons and him wearing clothing reminiscent of past school shooters. One such post alarmingly stated, “when I turn 21 I am going to kill people,” while another ominously declared, “it’s over! my time is almost here!”
Investigators are also looking into the boy’s parents and their responsibility regarding the storage of these firearms, which raises vital questions about safety and accountability in homes with guns. Washington state law prohibits individuals under 18 from possessing firearms unless for specific purposes such as hunting or safety courses.
Authorities expressed concerns that the boy had prepared for a potential violent act, stating, “It’s clear it was a matter of time before a tragic incident occurred.”
During the court hearing, the boy’s mother suggested the social media posts might have been a misguided attempt to gain attention from peers. At the time of his arrest, the boy was being homeschooled, having last attended the Franklin Pierce School District in 2021.
The situation has ignited a broader conversation about youth, gun safety, and parental responsibility in a society grappling with the fear of school violence. A pretrial conference is set for September 17, with a detention review scheduled for September 22, allowing the legal process to unfold further.
