Authorities in Colorado detained a 19-year-old man for allegedly plotting to open fire on several Colorado Springs schools.
On Thursday, the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office said that the defendant, William Whitworth, who went by the name “Lilly,” was changing from a male to a female.
Whitworth is accused of intimidating and interfering with personnel, instructors, or students of educational institutions, as well as two counts of first-degree attempted murder.
Last Friday, according to an arrest document obtained by FOX 21, deputies from the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbance complaint in the 13900 block of Double Tree Ranch Circle in the Town of Elbert.
According to reports, a family member told the 911 operators that her “sister” had anger management issues and had threatened to shoot up a school.
The house deputies visited the home and found it challenging to move around inside due to the trash and containers of partially consumed food inside.
According to the affidavit, Whitworth was asleep in the room where the deputies were sent. There were holes in the wall and debris piled up in the room to the height of the bed.
According to the affidavit, Whitworth revealed during questioning that he had intended to carry out a school shooting with Timberview Middle School, the suspect’s previous middle school, as the “primary target.”
According to arrest records, deputies also discovered a manifesto containing “schizophrenic rants” and references to serial killers, politicians, and celebrities, including the Columbine shooters and the late President Donald Trump, as well as a sketch of the school’s layout.
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The preliminary hearing for Whitworth is set on May 5. A $75,000 bond was set.
According to Academy District 20, staff members and parents were aware of the threats.
“We are filled with gratitude for those who ‘saw something/heard something’ and spoke up,” the district spokesperson said.
According to the district, the court had issued protective orders for Timberview Middle School, Pioneer Primary School, and Pine Creek High School.
Fox News Digital has contacted the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office for further information.
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