A 33-year-old Texas mother is facing criminal charges after allegedly helping her middle school-aged son prepare for a mass shooting at his school, according to authorities.
Ashley Pardo was arrested this week after investigators determined she knowingly purchased military-grade ammunition, ballistic gear, and other tactical supplies for her son—despite being aware of his violent intentions. The case has drawn national attention and raised urgent questions about parental accountability and school safety.
The investigation began in January 2025 when the boy was reportedly caught researching notorious mass shootings on a school-issued device. Authorities later uncovered disturbing evidence, including a hand-drawn map of the school labeled with a route marked “suicide route,” and illustrations of rifles.
According to ABC News, the boy was suspended in April and subsequently attempted suicide. Though the attempt was unsuccessful, he required over 100 stitches and was later transferred to an alternative school.
The case escalated Monday when the boy’s grandmother alerted law enforcement after catching him striking a bullet with a hammer. He confessed the bullet had come from his mother. He also revealed that Pardo had taken him to military surplus stores, where she allegedly purchased ballistic plates, tactical clothing, a helmet, a vest, and other gear.
Police later discovered a loaded rifle, multiple gun magazines, and an improvised explosive device hidden in the boy’s bedroom.
Perhaps most shocking is the allegation that Pardo, despite being aware of her son’s “violent expressions,” told school staff she supported his behavior so he could babysit his younger siblings.
Authorities say the boy arrived on campus Monday, May 12, 2025, wearing his military-style gear but left school grounds before being arrested off-site. He remains in custody and is undergoing psychiatric evaluation. Charges against him are pending.
Pardo has been charged with making a firearm accessible to a minor, child endangerment, and criminal conspiracy. Additional charges could follow as the investigation continues.
