Portland teen faces terrorism charges after school chemical scare

A 15-year-old student at Benson Polytechnic High School in Portland, Oregon, faces 19 criminal counts, including domestic terrorism and attempted murder, following a chemical incident in a school cafeteria on September 8.

Authorities allege the teenager brought chemicals from home and mixed them to release toxic gases, specifically hydrogen sulfide, which endangered students and staff. The incident resulted in seven people receiving medical attention, including the student, who was left in critical condition. Investigators noted the student had previously expressed interest in explosives and hazardous materials.

Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez stated that the office would seek to move the case from juvenile to adult court. Defense attorneys have denied the allegations, noting that the teenager is currently receiving treatment at an inpatient mental health facility.