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Friday, March 29, 2024

Teen Arrested in ISIS-Inspired Plot to Commit Mass Shooting at Texas Mall

A 17-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of plotting a mass shooting at the Stonebriar Centre mall in Frisco, Texas.

Matin Azizi-Yarand faces charges of making a terroristic threat and criminal solicitation of capital murder of a Texas peace officer, and if convicted he could face life in prison.

Authorities allege he was part of a group that planned to carry out the attack in mid-May. He sent more than $1,400 to others to buy weapons and had written a message explaining why he had carried out the attack, according to authorities.

Aziz-Yarand allegedly discussed his plans online with undercover FBI sources, deliberating over whether to choose a school or a Hindu temple before settling on the mall and telling them he had been studying the layout.

“We are fortunate that the brave men and women of local and federal law enforcement work around the clock to prevent acts of terrorism and mass shootings,” District Attorney Greg Willis said. “I’d like to thank the FBI’s North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Frisco and Plano police departments for their efforts in this case and their vigilance in protecting the citizens of Collin County.”

Aziz-Yarand allegedly told sources that he planned to take hostages and that the attack would be planned to take place during Ramadan to limit the number of Muslim casualties. He will be tried at the state level instead of federal because in the Texas court system he’s considered an adult.

“The facts of this case, though alarming, serve as an example of the power of cooperation and the importance of each individual remaining vigilant in the spirit of ‘see something-say something,'” Police Chief John Bruce said.

Teen Arrested in ISIS-Inspired Plot to Commit Mass Shooting at Texas Mall Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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