News Summary
A mother in San Antonio has been arrested for allegedly aiding her son, a 13-year-old, in carrying out threats of mass violence at a middle school. Authorities found disturbing items related to violent acts at their home, prompting the boy’s arrest on terrorism charges. School officials had previously noted concerning behaviors, leading to increased security measures at the school. This incident raises significant concerns about youth behavior and the responsibility of caregivers in monitoring their children’s actions.
San Antonio – A 33-year-old mother has been arrested for allegedly enabling her son to carry out threats of mass violence at Rhodes Middle School. Authorities took Ashley Pardo into custody on May 12, 2025, after an investigation into her son, a 13-year-old student who reportedly expressed a desire to commit violent acts.
The investigation was initiated when concerns about the boy’s behavior came to the attention of law enforcement and school officials. It was found that he had a troubling fascination with notorious mass shooters and had previously been suspended for researching violent incidents, including the 2019 mosque shootings in Christchurch. This alarming behavior prompted school officials to monitor him closely.
Authorities revealed that disturbing items were uncovered at the boy’s home, including ammunition, a makeshift explosive device, and written notes that referenced notable mass shootings. Reports indicate that Pardo had purchased tactical gear and ammunition for her son, which he received in exchange for babysitting his younger siblings.
The boy was detained off-campus on the same day as his mother’s arrest and has been charged with terrorism. Prior to his arrest, a relative alerted law enforcement after witnessing him strike a live bullet with a hammer and verbalizing his desire to become “famous.” Such actions raised significant alarms regarding his mental state and intentions.
In response to these events, Rhodes Middle School’s principal, Felismina Martinez, confirmed that school officials had observed concerning behaviors, including drawings labeled “suicide route” and sketches involving rifles. The school has since increased security measures and surveillance on campus as a precautionary response to ensure the safety of all students.
Pardo had previously been warned about her son’s troubling behaviors by both law enforcement and school officials. She reportedly did not discourage his violent expressions and seemed to support his concerning interests. Just days before the incident, the boy returned to Rhodes Middle School on May 8, 2025, after attending an alternative school due to ongoing behavioral issues.
Following her arrest, Pardo was released on a $75,000 bond. Her next court hearing is set for July 17, 2025. The incident has sparked renewed discussions within the community about vigilance regarding school safety. Community members expressed gratitude for the relative’s intervention, underscoring the vital role that awareness and communication play in preventing potential violence.
This incident highlights the complexities surrounding youth behavior, the influence of access to weapons, and the responsibility of caregivers in monitoring and guiding young people. Officials have reiterated the importance of adhering to safety protocols and encouraging open conversations between parents and children about violence and safety.
As investigations continue, officials remain committed to ensuring the safety of students and faculty at Rhodes Middle School and preventing future threats of violence.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT
- Wikipedia: School Safety
- CBS News
- Google Search: Mass Shooting Prevention
- USA Today
- Google Scholar: School Violence Prevention
- Washington Post
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mass Shooting
- KENS 5
- Google News: School Shooting News
