An 18-year-old high school student from Maryland, Alex Ye, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with threat of mass violence.
Police discovered evidence indicating that Ye had plans to carry out a school shooting.
The Montgomery County Department of Police stated that they found a 129-page document authored by Ye, detailing strategies for committing a school shooting and expressing a desire for notoriety.
The investigation was triggered by an Instagram exchange where Ye discussed his intentions with someone who knew him from a local psychiatric facility.
Ye referred to the document as a work of fiction, but it contained troubling content related to mass violence. Internet searches and drawings further raised concerns.
Ye has been in an online program since fall 2022 and was hospitalized multiple times for violent ideations.
Recent interviews with a school counselor revealed disturbing statements from Ye about harming others.
Due to this incident and other threats, security has been heightened in Montgomery County schools.
The school district emphasized collaboration with law enforcement to address potential threats promptly.
Support resources are available for students and staff affected by these events.
The seriousness of the charges underscores the ongoing commitment to student safety by school authorities and law enforcement.
