California Teen Arrested for Attempted Murder After Plotting to Carry Out School Shooting

A high school student in California, identified as Sebastian Villasenor, has been arrested and is facing attempted murder charges in connection with a plot to carry out a school shooting, according to CNN.

The arrest came after a classmate expressed concerns about Villasenor's fixation on school shootings and his access to weapons, according to Ontario Police Chief Mike Lorenz.

Villasenor, 18, was apprehended on Saturday, and a subsequent search of his residence revealed a cache of weapons.

Investigators discovered seven rifles, two revolvers, a handgun, and a shotgun, along with over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, as highlighted by Chief Lorenz during a news conference on Wednesday.

Lorenz disclosed that the California teen had identified five intended victims, all fellow students at Ontario Christian High School, and was contemplating a sixth.

Notably, all the potential victims were girls, according to a criminal complaint filed.

The Police Chief emphasized that there was no explicit hit list, but the threats were determined through interviews detailing Villasenor's interactions with other students.

California Teen's Background and Investigation

Authorities revealed that Villasenor exhibited an obsession with school shootings, particularly referencing the tragic incident at Columbine High School in Colorado, CBS News noted.

His extensive research included tactical supplies, police response times, and the proximity of the Ontario Police Department to the school.

The investigation suggested that Villasenor might have been planning the shooting around April 20, coinciding with the Columbine High School incident in 1999.

Principal Ben Dykhouse, speaking about Villasenor, confirmed that the student had attended Ontario Christian High School for two years and had no prior disciplinary record indicating a potential for violence.

Authorities reiterated that Villasenor had no police record or criminal history.

Contrary to speculation, interviews conducted by law enforcement indicated that Villasenor was not bullied or harassed.

However, the California teen faced challenges in forming relationships with other students and struggled with social interactions, according to Lorenz.

Legal Proceeding Following Thwarted School Shooting

Villasenor was arraigned on Thursday and pleaded not guilty to the charges, including one count of attempted criminal threats and five counts of attempted murder.

The San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office issued a news release confirming his legal representation by a public defender.

Due to the perceived risk he posed to potential victims and the community, Villasenor is being held without bail.

His next court appearance is scheduled for February 20, as per the district attorney's office.

The San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office commended the swift and thorough response of the Ontario Police Department and the courage of the student who voiced concerns, emphasizing that tragedy was averted and lives potentially saved, per KTLA 5.

They urged residents across the county to remain vigilant, stating that active shooter threats should always be treated seriously, and encouraged the mantra, "If you see something, say something."

In the wake of this alarming incident, the community is left grappling with the realization that even seemingly ordinary individuals may harbor dangerous intentions.

The legal proceedings will shed further light on the motives behind the California teen's alleged school shooting plot as authorities work to ensure the safety of students and residents alike.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: California teen charged in school shooting plot - From NBC News