PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — The Benson Polytechnic High student accused of exposing classmates to a chemical mixture last month, seriously injuring himself in the process, faces nearly 20 charges, including 12 counts of attempted murder and domestic terrorism.
The 15-year-old student was charged with 19 counts following the September 8 incident.
According to investigators, the student mixed chemicals inside the school cafeteria, inhaling the gases released by the mixture.
On Friday, a spokesperson for the Oregon Judicial Department said the teen would face a first-degree domestic terrorism charge. Then 18 more accusations came to light.
In total, the teen was charged with 12 counts of attempted murder or aggravated murder; one count of first-degree domestic terrorism; one count of attempted terrorism in the second degree; one count of unlawful manufacturing of a destructive device; one count of unlawful possession of a destructive device; one count of possession of a weapon in a public building; one count of unlawful use of a weapon; and one count of recklessly endangering others.
Students reported smelling a strong odor near the school commons and cafeteria, where the incident occurred.
PAST COVERAGE | Police: Student in critical condition after ingesting chemicals at Benson HS in Portland
As the incident unfolded, the school was evacuated and students gathered on the nearby sports fields.
Emergency medical personnel assessed exposure for several students before they left school. Portland Fire and Rescue said people can stay in the environment for up to 8 hours without experiencing adverse health effects from exposure to these particular chemicals.
KATU News has reached out to Portland Police for comment on the case update.
A St. Helens teenager was indicted earlier this year on domestic terrorism charges after being accused of plotting to target and kill Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Portland. Those charges were later dismissed and he pleaded guilty last month to illegally manufacturing a destructive device.
This is a developing story; updates will be posted as information arrives.
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