The FBI, along with law enforcement in Columbia County, Oregon, apprehended a teenager late last month who was reportedly plotting a mass shooting with explosives at a shopping mall in Washington state.

In a statement released Thursday, the FBI announced that the teen, who remains unnamed, was taken into custody on May 22 by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

The FBI learned of “detailed and imminent” attack plans after they were reported to the agency just two days before the juvenile’s arrest.

Upon discovering the suspected attack, the FBI collaborated with its partners to track down the person responsible for the threat. By May 20, the teenager from Columbia County was identified as the suspect.

The Columbia County, Washington, Sheriff’s Office arrested the teenager on state charges. (iStock)

“This plot was as serious as it gets,” FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson said. “We, along with our partners, moved swiftly to interrupt this violent plan and to protect our community.” 

While the FBI made initial contact with the teenager, the local sheriff’s office made the arrest on state charges.

The Columbia County District Attorney’s office is prosecuting the case.

The FBI said it encourages the public to report suspicious behavior to law enforcement, adding that parents are also encouraged to engage in open dialog with their children about their online activity.