Deputies Charge Gainesville Teen With Attempting to Build ISIS-Linked Explosives

A 15-year-old student at Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Florida, now faces charges for attempting to construct a destructive device. The arrest follows a joint probe by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation that began after officials detected online communication between the teen and supporters of the Islamic State group.

Investigators reported that the student requested guidance on building drones and explosives intended for an attack at an unspecified location. During the inquiry, authorities spoke with the boy’s parents, who granted permission to examine his mobile phone. The device contained files with instructions for manufacturing explosive devices, lists of chemical compounds, and propaganda materials associated with the organization.

The digital evidence prompted a second search of the residence on Monday. With parental consent, detectives found two jars in the student’s bedroom. The teen told investigators that the containers held chemicals used to create triacetone triperoxide, a potent explosive commonly known as TATP. The Alachua County Bomb Squad unit responded to the home to secure the materials before detectives completed their search of the property.

The student was charged with making or attempting to make a destructive device. Prosecutors indicated that additional charges may be filed as the case develops. Family members, speaking off camera, stated they still had questions about the investigation and declined further comment.

The case highlights the specific risks associated with unmonitored digital interactions for minors. The presence of TATP, a highly sensitive explosive, required specialized handling by the bomb squad to ensure the materials were rendered safe.