News Summary
Ashley Pardo, 33, was arrested for allegedly aiding her 13-year-old son in a disturbing scheme involving potential mass violence at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School. The investigation, triggered by alarming drawings made by the boy, revealed plans that included tactical gear and an improvised explosive device. Despite previous warnings regarding her son’s behavior, Pardo reportedly facilitated his access to weapons. The case raises urgent questions about parental responsibility and youth violence in schools, with ongoing investigations ensuring student safety remains a priority.
San Antonio – Ashley Pardo, a 33-year-old mother, was arrested on May 12 after being accused of aiding her 13-year-old son in a plot of “targeted mass violence” at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School. Pardo faces charges of aiding in the commission of terrorism based on investigations that revealed her alleged involvement in her son’s disturbing plans.
The investigation commenced when police were alerted to chilling drawings made by the boy, which depicted a detailed map of the school labeled “suicide route” alongside a sketch of a rifle. Initial discussions with the boy regarding these drawings took place in January, raising red flags about his mental state and intentions. His troubling behavior escalated in April when he was suspended from school for researching the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, an incident that claimed over 50 lives.
After being assigned to an alternative school following his suspension, the boy returned to Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School on May 8. However, the situation took a serious turn on May 12, when a relative discovered an improvised explosive device, live ammunition, and firearm magazines in the child’s possession. This alarming discovery prompted the relative to contact law enforcement authorities, leading to further investigations.
Reports indicate that the boy claimed his mother had purchased the ammunition, tactical gear, and even military fatigues in exchange for babysitting his younger siblings. On the day of the arrest, witnesses noted that the boy arrived at school wearing tactical clothing and a mask but left the campus shortly after. Following his departure, school officials issued an alert to enhance security measures on campus and initiated sweeps for potential explosive devices.
School principal Felismina Martinez assured parents that all potential threats are taken seriously and that the safety of the students remains the top priority. Despite the alarming circumstances, records reveal that Pardo did not express concern about her son’s behavior and reportedly supported his violent artistic expressions.
Pardo’s awareness of her son’s concerning conduct is further underscored by court documents, which indicate prior interactions with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, and school personnel regarding the boy’s behavior. It has been reported that the child had a fascination with mass shooters, including writing a note listing the names of infamous perpetrators and inscribing “14 words” and “SS” symbols, which are known to be linked to extremist ideologies.
Following her arrest, Pardo was released from custody after posting a $75,000 bond. The next scheduled hearing for Pardo is set for July 17. The ramifications of this case raise critical questions about parental responsibility, mental health, and school safety in an era marked by rising concerns surrounding youth violence.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to fully address the implications of this serious incident. It highlights the importance of vigilance in identifying potential risks and ensuring environments where children can learn and grow safely, without fear of violence. School officials are committed to continuing to prioritize safety measures and support for students following this incident.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mother Charged in Son’s School Terror Plot
San Antonio Schools Face Accountability Challenges in Ratings
Mother Arrested for Supplying Gear for School Attack
Mother Arrested for Equipping Son for School Attack
Mother Arrested for Aiding Son’s School Shooting Plot
Tragic Incident at Glenoaks Elementary School
San Antonio Mother Arrested for Aiding School Shooting Plot
San Antonio Faces Unseasonably Early Heat Wave
San Antonio Braces for Unprecedented Heat Wave
Mother Arrested for Allegedly Assisting Son’s School Attack Plan
Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Mass Shooting
- ABC News
- Google Search: Mass Violence in Schools
- KENS 5 News
- Google Scholar: School Violence Intervention
- NBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Terrorism
- Fox 7 Austin
- Google News: School Safety
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
