A group of girls ages 10 and 11 were detained after they allegedly plotted the murder of their classmate, who reportedly cheated on one of the accused. The orchestrated killing of the Arizona elementary student was prevented when other students overheard four girls plotting how they would end his life and informed the school officials.
The disturbing plan, which police say was created during lunch and recess on October 1, involved luring the boy into an outdoor bathroom at Legacy Traditional School’s West Surprise campus.
According to the report, the four girls were assigned different roles in the murder to ensure they got away with it. The girls had planned to make the murder look like a suicide, with one of them tasked with writing a fake suicide letter while another girl was responsible for bringing the murder weapon, a knife, to school.
A different girl would be the lookout when it was time to attack the boy in the bathroom. The fourth girl would be responsible for stabbing the student to death. They even discussed wearing gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on the weapon.
Thanks to the students who came forward, the school was able to respond quickly. Administrators, working alongside the school resource officer, searched the girls’ backpacks the following day and questioned them individually with their parents present. All four were arrested on charges of threatening and misdemeanour disorderly conduct.
Though three of the girls reportedly showed remorse during questioning, one was described as smiling and laughing while making attempts to justify her actions. The police report indicated that the motive behind the plot may have stemmed from a breakup and allegations of cheating.
Following the arrests, the girls were suspended and were pending expulsion at the time of the report. Police have since stated they will not be sharing any further updates on the case.
Children may not fully grasp the weight of their actions, especially at ages 10 or 11, says licensed clinical therapist Travis Webb. He explains that the part of the brain responsible for regulating emotions is still developing, often not maturing until the early twenties.
He also added that increased exposure to violence online influences youths. Webb urges parents to remain alert, limit unsupervised internet access, and create safe spaces for open dialogue. If a child expresses harmful thoughts, he emphasises listening without judgement and seeking professional support, rather than reacting with punishment or fear.