The FBI detained a California man on Tuesday, Dec. 17, that officials said was plotting an attack during conversations with the 15-year-old girl suspected of committing a deadly school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin. Police and FBI agents reportedly swarmed the home of 20-year-old Alexander Paffendorf in Carlsbad, California, on Tuesday to seize his guns and ammunition after a judge’s order under the state’s red flag law.
The court’s order came following allegations that Paffendorf was planning a mass shooting with Natalie “Samantha” Rupnow, the suspected Wisconsin shooter.
Officials said, during the interview with FBI agents, that Paffendorf admitted that he told Rupnow he planned to arm himself with explosives and a gun in an attack on a government building.
The FBI did not provide further details on the pair’s communication. It’s also unclear if authorities arrested Paffendorf or if he faces any charges.
However, law enforcement said there is no current threat to the local community. Madison Police said Rupnow opened fire at a private Christian school on Monday, Dec. 16, killing a teacher and student and injuring six others.
Police found Rupnow’s body at the scene with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A motive for the shooting is still being investigated.
