North Texas Teen Charged with Terrorism

Matin Azizi-Yarand was allegedly making plans to take part in a mass shooting at a north Texas shopping mall. Officials say he had spent some $1400 on weapons and equipment to carry out the shooting said to be inspired by the Islamic State terror group.

KWTX reports that Yarand is charged with criminal solicitation of capital murder and making terrorist threats. The charges could mean a life sentence in prison. He is listed as being held in the Collin County jail on a $3 million dollar bond.

The 17-year-old was planning on releasing a message to America in advance of the shooting to explain his actions. The shooting was said to have been planned for the month of May.