Mother Arrested for Allegedly Supporting Son’s Attack Plans
San Antonio resident Ashley Pardo, 33, was arrested and charged with aiding in the commission of terrorism after allegedly providing ammunition and tactical gear to her middle school-aged son, who reportedly planned a violent attack on Rhodes Middle School. Authorities began their investigation into Pardo’s son in January 2025 after he made disturbing drawings that depicted violent scenarios, including one labeled as a “suicide route.” Officials were further alerted when the student showed fascination with mass shootings, notably researching the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks during school hours.
The situation escalated when the boy’s grandmother discovered alarming items in their home. Police found an improvised explosive device with white nationalist slogans written on it, along with loaded rifle and pistol magazines. The grandmother also witnessed her grandson striking a live bullet with a hammer—an incident that heightened immediate safety concerns and prompted her to contact authorities.
According to court documents, Pardo reportedly purchased the tactical gear and ammunition as a reward for her son’s help in babysitting his younger siblings. Police records indicate that she expressed support to school officials regarding her son’s violent expressions and drawings, reportedly telling them she was not concerned.
Ashley Pardo faces terrorism-related charges and was held on a $75,000 bond before securing her release pending further court hearings.
“The evidence collected has led to serious charges due to the potential threat posed. This case underscores the complex role families can play in identifying or abetting intentions of violence,” a spokesperson for the San Antonio Police Department said.
Timeline and Discovery of the Planned Attack
The first significant sign of trouble came in January, when the student at Rhodes Middle School created violent and explicit drawings. He wrote notes referencing mass shootings, and the school suspended him in April after finding he had used school technology to research the Christchurch attacks of 2019. Following his suspension and subsequent return from an alternative education setting, Rhodes Middle School implemented additional security protocols, reflecting heightened concerns over his potential behavior.
On the day of his arrest, the student reportedly arrived at school dressed in alarming attire—wearing a mask, camouflage jacket, and tactical pants. Authorities initially could not locate him on the school grounds, leading to a swift and organized search. He was ultimately detained off-campus without incident, preventing any immediate harm.
Investigations revealed that the boy confided to his grandmother about his disturbing intentions, telling her he was “going to be famous” by carrying out an attack. This statement, combined with the discovery of weapons and explosive devices, emphasized the severity of the potential threat.
Pardo has remained at the center of these serious allegations, with authorities focusing on her role in supporting her son’s planning and preparation. She reportedly remained aware of the full extent of his plans and provided material support that significantly escalated the threat level.
The grandmother’s timely intervention, coupled with rapid law enforcement response, appears to have prevented a potentially devastating incident at Rhodes Middle School, authorities stated.
School officials continue to stress their commitment to student safety, noting they have reassured parents and implemented strict security measures.
Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School principal stated, “Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement and have taken additional precautionary measures.”
Broader Implications and Policy Response
Incidents involving family members who either fail to report or actively support violent behaviors are closely monitored by law enforcement and policy makers nationwide. According to data provided by the National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC), school-assault plots discovered in advance often involve warning signs visible to families or other caregivers. NTAC cited family involvement and reporting as crucial in preventing potential tragedies.
Historically, authorities have advocated for more robust community awareness and education programs aiming to help relatives and guardians identify and respond to early warning signs of radicalization or violence. In this Texas case, the swift reporting by a family member highlights the importance of these initiatives, showing how effective reporting can prevent attacks.
Legislatively, recent years have seen increased focus at both state and federal levels on holding those accountable who knowingly aid in violent plots, particularly when minors are involved. Charges like those facing Ashley Pardo demonstrate a legal willingness to prosecute enablers aggressively, with potential implications for broader parental accountability in criminal acts committed by minors.
School districts across the United States may react by revisiting security and reporting protocols. Rhodes Middle School’s quick action and enhanced security measures following the boy’s initial suspension reflect a broader trend in school safety initiatives.
Legal experts point out that this case could set precedents, particularly regarding how the justice system deals with parents accused of active involvement in juvenile crime. It raises critical questions about parental culpability and could prompt legislative reviews or increased penalties for similar offenses across other jurisdictions.
This incident underscores the complex and critical role of caregivers in both detecting and addressing early signs of potentially violent behavior in youth.
“This case should remind everyone that preventing tragedy is not only the responsibility of schools and law enforcement but also of parents, family, and communities,” said Dr. James Thompson, a criminologist specializing in juvenile offenses at Texas State University.