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Local, Federal Authories Foil Alleged Mall Rampage Shooting

Collin County DA

Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis says a North Texas high school student was planning a Columbine-style shooting at a Frisco mall sometime this month. That was before local and federal law enforcement foiled his plot. 

Seventeen-year-old Matin Azizi-Yarand, a student at Plano West Senior High School  is in federal custody for allegedly trying to solicit help in shooting up StoneBriar Mall. In a statement from Willis’ office, authorities say Azizi-Yarand had extensive conversations with an FBI agent he thought was an ally.

The district attorney says Azizi-Yarand had about $1,400 worth of weapons and tactical gear and had planned on releasing a manifesto called  “Message to America.” The manifesto allegedly outlines ideas sympathetic to ISIS.

FBI Dallas Special Agent-In-Charge Eric K. Jackson says the bureau has found no one else connected to the plot. The investigation into the alleged plot involved several police agencies, including the Plano and Frisco police departments.

For a copy of the affidavit arrest warrant, click here.

Scott Morgan has been an award-winning journalist since 2001. His work has appeared in several newspapers and magazines as well as online. He has also been an editor, freelancer, speaker, writing teacher, author, and podcaster.