Portland teen charged with domestic terrorism

PORTLAND Oregon (KPTV) – A 15-year-old student accused of causing a toxic chemical reaction inside the Benson Polytechnic High School cafeteria faces a domestic terrorism charge, according to the Oregon Judicial Department.

The teenager, born December 7, 2010, is due to appear in juvenile court on Friday at 1 p.m. Court records show the only current charge is first-degree domestic terrorism, although officials have indicated additional charges could follow.

Authorities said the teen brought household chemicals to school on Sept. 8 and mixed them in the cafeteria around 8:30 a.m. The resulting chemical reaction released a toxic gas that sent the student into a serious medical emergency. School administrators and the nurse performed CPR and used a defibrillator until emergency crews arrived.

First responders described a green chemical spill and a cloud of grayish vapor that smelled like rotten eggs. Firefighters and hazardous materials crews neutralized the spill and cleared the air. Medical staff evaluated more than 100 students and staff on site, and no additional hospitalizations were reported.

The Portland Police Bureau, FBI, ATF and a bomb squad launched a joint investigation after the evacuation. Investigators seized electronic devices and chemical samples from the student’s home. Officials previously said the student acted alone and posed no ongoing danger to the community.

A lawyer for the teen’s family sent a statement before his court appearance saying:

“The fifteen-year-old boy charged in this case is receiving appropriate and necessary mental health treatment. Unlike the adult criminal system, juvenile court is structured to prioritize the individual needs of youth and promote rehabilitation and healing. The family is grateful that no one else was injured and for the quick intervention of school staff and first responders. They ask for privacy at this time so they can focus on their child’s recovery.”