Man Arrested for Plotting Attack on State College Area High School, Police Say

State College Area High School. Photo by Ben Jones | StateCollege.com

A Mifflin County man is behind bars after being accused of planning a potentially deadly attack on State College Area High School.

Braeden Phillips, 20, formerly of State College, was plotting the attack for later in April, according to a media release from borough police on Saturday.

Phillips is charged with conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful possession of a firearm. He was arraigned on Saturday morning by District Judge Casey McClain, who denied bail, citing “extreme danger to the community.” He is incarcerated at the Centre County Correctional Facility.

Details about the nature of the planned attack were not disclosed in the release, and a criminal complaint was not immediately available.

“At this stage of the investigation, police have nothing to indicate that there is an active threat against the school,” State College Area School District Superintendent Curtis Johnson wrote in an email to families on Saturday.

After receiving a tip on Friday from a “concerned citizen,” police, with the assistance of school district administration, investigated and determined there was a legitimate threat, according to the release. A search warrant was executed on Phillips’ residence and he was taken into custody.

“This investigation will continue to ascertain any potential involvement of other individuals,” police wrote.

Anyone who may have information related to the investigation is asked to contact State College police at (814) 234-7150, by email to police@statecollegepa.us or by submitting an anonymous tip online.

The Centre County District Attorney’s Office, state police and U.S. Department of Homeland Security also assisted in the investigation.

“With the potential threat thwarted, we wish to express our gratitude to our school resource officer, Matt Hertlein, and the State College police for their swift response and coordination to protect our high school community,” Johnson wrote. “School safety is imperative for us, and along with various security measures, the close relationship we have with local law enforcement enables us to maintain a safe environment for our students and staff. It’s times like this when we must rely on their guidance and expertise, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

Phillips’ preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.