Memphis Police and other law enforcement agencies investigate the scene of a shooting resulting in the deaths of two people near Booker T. Washington High School on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn.
Tehama County – Parents are hailing a Tennessee teenager as a hero after he alerted authorities to a chilling plot to attack a California middle school, a move that officials say likely prevented a mass tragedy.
The teen contacted the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office on May 9 after a disturbing online gaming interaction with another teenager who allegedly discussed plans for school violence. The gamer shared that the suspect had detailed a manifesto and sent photographs mimicking the Columbine school shooters, raising serious alarms.
Sheriff Dave Kain said that an investigation quickly led to the arrest of two teenagers, aged 14 and 15, who had allegedly planned to attack Evergreen Middle School in Cottonwood, California. The suspects had built and tested two improvised explosive devices and possessed firearms in preparation for what Kain described as a “mass casualty event.” Their intent, he said, was to kill more than 100 people.
“The suspects were hopeful to amass a casualty count in excess of 100 individuals,” Kain said during a Tuesday press conference. “This is a good case of where it’s evident—if you see something, say something. And in this case, it worked.”
Authorities executed search warrants at both suspects’ homes on May 11, recovering the two explosive devices, weapons, and additional evidence supporting the tip from the Tennessee teen. Investigators confirmed the suspects—described as close friends—had no prior contact with law enforcement.
Authorities booked the suspects into the Tehama County Juvenile Justice Center on multiple charges, including criminal threats, possession and manufacturing of a destructive device, and conspiracy to commit a felony. Prosecutors are weighing additional charges, including conspiracy to commit mass murder.
Sheriff Kain said the suspects even planned to kill one set of parents before carrying out the attack. Digital forensic analysis by the FBI confirmed the plot’s scope, and no additional suspects have been identified.
Evergreen Union School District Superintendent Brad Mendenhall assured families that they have implemented increased security measures. “Right now, I am thankful that a catastrophic event was averted and all of my students, staff, and community are safe,” Mendenhall said.
Kain praised the Tennessee teenager for his quick thinking and courage, crediting him with potentially saving dozens of lives. The sheriff has invited the teen to visit Tehama County to be formally recognized.
“This young man had the courage and heroic instincts to call our agency,” Kain said. “I’d like to celebrate this young hero and focus attention on what it deserves to be.”
