Portland teenager charged with terrorism after toxic gas release

A 15-year-old student at Benson Polytechnic High School in Portland, Oregon, faces 19 criminal charges following the release of toxic gases in a school cafeteria on September 8. Authorities report that the minor transported chemical substances from his home and mixed them at the school, resulting in the release of dangerous gases.

The indictment includes 10 counts of attempted manslaughter, one count of attempted first-degree murder, one count of attempted second-degree murder, and charges of first- and second-degree domestic terrorism. Additional charges involve the illegal manufacture and possession of an explosive or destructive device, possession of a weapon in a public building, and reckless endangerment.

During the incident, which occurred shortly before 8:30 a.m., dozens of students and teachers were in close proximity to the teenager. The school was evacuated, and at least seven people required medical attention. The teenager collapsed during the event and was hospitalized in critical condition but survived. Preliminary analysis by the Metropolitan Explosive Disposal Unit and the Oregon National Guard identified the presence of hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic gas. Samples have been sent to the FBI for further analysis.