Law enforcement officials discovered 23 firearms and disturbing social media posts in the residence of a 13-year-old boy who appeared to idolize mass shooters.

According to Associated Press, the Pierce County Sheriff's Office conducted a SWAT raid at 1 a.m. Saturday, leading to the teenager's arrest on multiple weapons charges. The juvenile suspect faces five charges, including four felonies, to which he has pleaded not guilty in court.

The arsenal discovered included tactical-style rifles mounted on walls and unsecured handguns scattered throughout the residence. Investigators also found AR-style magazines with references to the 1999 Columbine High School shooting hidden beneath a turtle habitat in the boy's room.

Disturbing Social Media Trail Leads to Arrest

The investigation began after authorities uncovered concerning social media posts dating back to June. The teen had been posting photos of himself dressed in attire similar to that of previous school shooters while displaying various weapons.

Deputy Carly Cappetto expressed grave concern about the immediacy of the threat posed by the suspect. The investigation revealed social media posts where the teen wrote about his intentions to kill people when he turned 21.

The boy's online presence showed a pattern of concerning behavior and fascination with mass shootings. Among the evidence collected was a crude drawing featuring the face of a known mass shooter.

Parents Under Investigation for Weapon Storage

Pierce County authorities are currently investigating the role of the suspect's parents in the case. The focus is on the improper storage and safekeeping of the firearms found throughout the home.

Washington state law strictly prohibits minors under 18 from possessing firearms except in specific circumstances, such as hunting or firearms safety courses. The law also addresses the unsafe storage of firearms, particularly when accessible to prohibited persons.

Prosecutors are reviewing potential charges against the parents for improper weapon storage. The decision will be based on ongoing interviews and evidence collection by investigators.

Legal Proceedings and School Status

The teenager, who cannot be identified due to his age, appeared in juvenile court on Monday. The judge ordered him to remain in detention pending further proceedings.

The suspect had not been enrolled in the Franklin Pierce School District since 2021. At the time of his arrest, he was being homeschooled, according to court documents.

The boy's mother, present at the court hearing, downplayed the severity of the situation in an interview with KOMO-TV. She suggested her son's social media posts were merely an attempt to gain peer acceptance.