Liberator in Action: An Unnamed Teen Hero

Some of us aren’t familiar with what goes on in a casual gaming chat. Maybe some jokes or maybe make a new friend. But for one Tennessee teenager, one particular chat turned into something far more serious and sinister, and his quick action saved dozens of lives.

During a routine online game, the unnamed teen began chatting with another player who lived more than 2,000 miles away in California. But the chat took a very dark turn when the other teen shared a manifesto and photo of himself dressed like the Columbine shooters. He talked about plans to target Evergreen Middle School in Cottonwood, California, hoping to kill or injure more than a hundred students and faculty.

A lot of kids might have shrugged it off as a twisted joke or stayed silent. But not this young man. He knew something was wrong, and he did the brave thing—he reported it.

Because of his tip, law enforcement acted fast. They searched the homes of two teenage suspects, aged 14 and 15, and found two homemade explosive devices. The teens were arrested and charged with serious crimes, including conspiracy to commit mass murder. The search also revealed the pair was plotting to kill one set of their parents before they attacked the rural middle school.

“We are here talking about a tremendously optimistic ending to what could have been a catastrophic event,” said Tehama County Sheriff Dave Kain. “Because one young teenager saw something that he didn’t think was right, and said something.”

The sheriff called him a hero. We agree. This unidentified teen reminds us that everyday people, no matter their age, can be powerful protectors. In a world that sometimes teaches us to mind our business or look the other way, he did the opposite. He saw danger, and he acted. One choice. One call. And a school full of children is still safe because of it.

At the heart of every liberator is a deep caring about what happens to others. Where there’s an opportunity to offer help or give support, they step into the fray despite unknown risks. Idealists to their core, they know they can make a difference. To the unnamed teen in Tennessee: thank you. Your swift action and courage to speak up are hallmarks of a true liberator.

Read the entire story here.