High school student accused of trying to make bombs for ISIS, deputies say

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB/Gray News) - A Florida high school student was arrested after an investigation into his contact with a terrorist organization revealed he was attempting to make bombs, authorities said.

Alachua County sheriff’s deputies said the 15-year-old is a student at Buchholz High School.

The sheriff’s office and FBI conducted a joint investigation on Friday at the teen’s home after investigators learned he was having online conversations with members and supporters of the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS.

Investigators say the teen asked for help to build drones and explosives to attack people at an unknown location.

Authorities spoke with the 15-year-old’s parents, who allowed them to search the boy’s phone. They reportedly found files containing instructions for making explosive devices and chemical compounds, as well as ISIS propaganda.

On Monday, investigators searched the teen’s home with his parents’ consent after they revealed the information found on the phone.

Inside, they found two jars in his bedroom. The 15-year-old reportedly told investigators the jars contained chemicals used to make “TATP,” or triacetone triperoxide, a dangerous explosive.

The Alachua County Bomb Squad unit responded to the home and secured the materials. Detectives then searched the home.

The 15-year-old was charged with making or attempting to make a destructive device. Additional charges could be added as the investigation continues.

Family members said off camera that they still had many questions about the investigation and declined to comment further.