Columbine Style Attack Thwarted at NJ High School

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Let's give a hand for the local law enforcement! They stepped up on this one!

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. — Students returned Monday to a New Jersey high school that prosecutors say was the target of a "Columbine-like" plot and were greeted by a police presence that was intended to reassure that Bridgewater-Raritan High School was safe.

Authorities say a 16-year-old junior at the school was arrested Thursday after a police resource officer at the school was told the teen was planning an attack.

Officials also arrested a 17-year-old senior from nearby Immaculata High School, who is a competitive target shooter.

Police declined to name the individuals, but said they found shotgun shells, bullets, black powder and explosive devices in a search of the 16-year-old's home.

Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne Forrest says the 16-year-old faces charges ranging from attempted murder to possession of destructive devices, and he's being held at the Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Facility.

Police said a search of the 17-year-old's home turned up several firearms registered to the boy's father, as well as shotgun shells matching the ones found in the 16-year-old's home. The 17-year-old is charged with possession of destructive devices.

Officials from the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office said the two students, who were friends, allegedly worked together to buy PVC piping, wiring and electrical devices at a local Home Depot, and then use schematic drawings of improvised explosive devices to begin trying to assemble them in the 16-year-old's home.

Bridgewater-Raritan High School was closed on Friday as a precaution. Counselors were on hand Monday to help students cope, and several students said attendance seemed lighter than usual.

The Associated Press: NJ high school reopens after threat