Deputies Find Two Jars of TATP Chemicals in Gainesville Teen's Bedroom

A 15-year-old student at Buchholz High School faces charges for attempting to create a destructive device after Alachua County deputies discovered explosive materials in his residence. The teen, identified by authorities as a local high schooler, was arrested following a joint probe with the FBI that centered on his digital communications with members of the Islamic State group.

The investigation began Friday when detectives learned the student was holding online conversations with ISIS members and supporters. Investigators noted that the teen had requested assistance to build drones and explosives intended to attack people at an unspecified location. Law enforcement officials spoke with the boy's parents, who granted permission to search his mobile phone.

During that initial search, agents retrieved files containing instructions for fabricating explosive devices, lists of chemical compounds, and ISIS propaganda materials. On Monday, detectives returned to the home with the parents' consent to conduct a physical search based on the digital evidence found earlier.

Search teams located two jars inside the teen's bedroom. The student told investigators the jars held chemicals used to produce TATP, a volatile explosive compound. The Alachua County Bomb Squad unit secured the materials, and detectives completed their sweep of the property.

The teen has been charged with making or attempting to make a destructive device. Prosecutors indicated that additional charges may be filed as the inquiry progresses. Family members spoke to reporters off camera, stating they still had many questions about the investigation but declined to provide further comment.