Mother Arrested for Allegedly Enabling Son’s School Attack Plot

Texas Mother Accused of Aiding Son’s Planned School Massacre

A 33-year-old Texas mother, Ashley Pardo, has been arrested for allegedly supplying her son with ammunition and tactical gear as he planned an attack on his middle school in San Antonio. Pardo faces charges of aiding in the commission of terrorism after authorities said she knowingly provided her son with materials intended to be used in a mass violence plot targeting Rhodes Middle School.

Disturbing Behavior Preceded the Planned Attack

The student had exhibited disturbing behavior for months, prompting concerns from school officials and law enforcement. In January, school staff discovered his drawings depicting a map of the school labeled “suicide route” alongside the school’s name written next to a rifle. He reportedly expressed fascination with past mass shooters, including studying the Christchurch mosque shooter’s manifesto. In April, he was suspended after using a school computer to research the 2019 New Zealand mosque attack that killed 51 people.

The Grandmother’s Intervention

The boy’s grandmother alerted police after finding live ammunition, tactical gear, and a homemade explosive device in his bedroom. The device bore white supremacist symbols and references to Brenton Tarrant, the Christchurch attacker, including “14 words” and “SS” insignia. A handwritten note listing names of mass shooters and the number of victims was also found. This discovery led to the student’s detention and subsequent charges.

Mother’s Role in the Planned Attack

Despite warnings from law enforcement, child protective services, and school officials about her son’s intentions, Pardo reportedly showed no concern and even expressed support for his violent behavior. She allegedly acquired tactical equipment, including magazines, a ballistic vest, helmet, and army clothing, through trips to a local surplus store. In exchange, her son would babysit his younger siblings.

The Incident Unfolds

On May 12, the student arrived at Rhodes Middle School wearing a camouflage jacket, tactical pants, and a mask but left soon after, prompting a security alert. Additional police officers were deployed, and the campus was swept for possible threats. The student was later detained off-campus and charged with terrorism.

Pardo’s Arrest and Release

Pardo was arrested on Monday and charged with one count of aiding in the commission of terrorism. She was released from Bexar County Jail after posting a $75,000 bond, with her next court appearance scheduled for July 17.

School’s Response

Rhodes Middle School’s principal, Felismina Martinez, assured parents in a letter that the school treats all threats seriously and prioritizes student safety. The incident has raised urgent questions about how concerns over potential school violence are handled and the role family members play in either preventing or enabling such threats.