Columbia County Juvenile Detained In Connection With Foiled Attack Plot -06/06/25

ST. HELENS, Ore. [June 6, 2025] — On May 22, 2025, deputies from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office took a Columbia County youth into custody in connection with a planned attack at the Three Rivers Mall in Kelso, Washington. The youth was placed in a juvenile detention facility and the youth’s name will not be released due to their age.

 

The detention was the result of a joint investigation led by the FBI Portland Field Office, with support from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and other partner agencies. The investigation began after the FBI received information on May 19, 2025, regarding the detailed plans. The youth was identified, placed under court-authorized surveillance, and, following the execution of a federal search warrant, was taken into custody on May 22.

 

The Columbia County District Attorney’s Office has charged the juvenile with the following offenses:

• Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (Class A Felony)
• Attempted Assault in the First Degree (Class B Felony)
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon — Firearm (Class C Felony)
• Unlawful Use of a Weapon — Knife (Class C Felony)
• Tampering with Physical Evidence (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree (Class B Misdemeanor)
• Two counts of Unlawful Possession of Firearms (Class A Misdemeanor)

 

“While the threat was real, coordinated law enforcement efforts ensured that it was addressed quickly and effectively, protecting the public from harm,” said Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley.

 

The case is being prosecuted by the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office. Law enforcement encourages parents and guardians to stay actively involved in monitoring their children’s online activity and to report any concerning behavior.

 

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