Man Allegedly Devised Plot To Attack School on Day After Columbine Anniversary

Police have arrested a young Pennsylvania man, accusing him of plotting an attack at State College High School just one day after the anniversary of the devastating Columbine massacre.

Key Insights

Braeden Phillips has been arrested for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at State College High School.
The purported plan was synchronized with the Columbine anniversary, meant to occur on April 21.
Phillips allegedly planned to detonate explosives and had a “hit list.”
A tip-off from a citizen helped authorities to uncover the chilling scheme.
The suspect faces serious charges and is currently held without bond.

Foiled Plot

Braeden Phillips, a 20-year-old Pennsylvanian, allegedly devised a plot to attack State College High School. The purported plan was to mark the Columbine anniversary, taking place on April 21. In an unnerving turn, Phillips allegedly compiled a “hit list” and intended to plant explosives in the school’s lavatories to maximize harm.

Prompt law enforcement action on April 15 thwarted the alleged attack, which was set to unfold the day after the Columbine anniversary. According to a complaint, friends of Phillips revealed he believed State College High School “didn’t meet his educational needs and failed him.”

Thwarted State College school attack meant to coincide with Columbine anniversary https://t.co/fDIdl7Ybp8

— WKBN 27 First News (@WKBN) April 14, 2025

Uncovering the Threat

The investigation gained traction through a critical tip from an astute citizen and youth center staff in Centre County. As authorities delved deeper, it became evident that Phillips not only possessed a “working and operational” handgun but was also engulfed by an interest in explosives

“State College Police would like to recognize that the success of this investigation would not have been possible without the initial report made by a concerned citizen. This illustrates the importance of ‘see something, say something,'” police said.

This proactive vigilance showcases the community’s role in preserving safety. Together with the State College police and the Department of Homeland Security, Phillips was swiftly apprehended. As this case unfolds, questions about potential accomplices remain, with authorities probing the possibility of a juvenile ally.

Legal Ramifications and Future Actions

Facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful possession of a firearm, Phillips remains at Centre County Correctional Facility, emphasizing the severity of his intentions. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 16. Legal outcomes may set precedents to better tackle similar threats in the future.

The tragic potential of violence in schools serves as a critical call to monitor signs of distress, employ preventive measures, and deploy community vigilance. With law enforcement alerted by concerned citizens, as seen in this situation, communities can be the frontline defense against violence. The vigilance of those around us remains an invaluable tool in averting tragedy.