Bombs Found In Bedroom Of Oregon Teen Who Planned To Blow Up School

Albany, OR — Six bombs were found in the bedroom of a teen already arrested for allegedly plotting to blow up his high school. The teen, 17-year-old Grant Acord, was taken into juvenile jail on Thursday night.

Police received a tip on Thursday that the teen was making a bomb to blow up West Albany High School. Benton County District Attorney John Haroldson announced late Saturday that authorities discovered six bombs in the teen’s bedroom, hidden in a secret compartment.

Haroldson added that Acord wrote plans and checklists. His intent was apparently “forged and inspired by the model of the Columbine shootings.” The District Attorney added that the Oregon teen will be charged as an adult.

Police have already searched the high school, but no bombs were discovered. Haroldson declined to give the specific date the teen set to carry out the attacks, though he explained it would be included in court paperwork filed after the weekend. He added that he is not aware that the youth had any problems at school, like a suspension. Haroldson explained:

“In any case that you have a young person that in essence plans to take a video game approach to killing people at school, you have to take a close look at the mental health issues. And the process will certainly provide for that once he’s represented by counsel.”

The DA added it doesn’t appear Acord was trying to target a specific person or group in the attack. However, he added, “I can’t say enough about how lucky we are that there was an intervention. When I look at the evidence in the case, I shudder to think of what could have happened here.”

Along with the bombs in the teen’s bedroom, authorities also found more bomb making supplies. It is unclear how many devices Acord had material to make. Acord will face a charge of attempted aggravated murder.

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