2 Teens Charged in Alleged Indiana High School Shooting Plot

Authorities say the teens planned a mass shooting at Morristown High School.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Two 17-year-old girls, Alexis Pickett and Melanie Little, have been charged as adults with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at Morristown High School in Shelbyville, Indiana. The investigation began in December when Pickett's mother reported concerning behavior, and the teens were found to have discussed the attack over social media, with Pickett sending Little a video of the school's layout.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat of school shootings and the importance of parents and authorities being vigilant about potential warning signs. It also raises questions about how to address mental health issues and prevent such tragedies from occurring.

The details

According to the probable cause affidavit, Pickett, a student at Morristown High School, and Little, of Corinth, Mississippi, communicated extensively over the messaging app Discord about planning a mass shooting at the school. Pickett acknowledged having a desire to hurt others and owned firearms, including a muzzleloader. The two discussed obtaining additional guns and timing the attack around the school's graduation.

  • The investigation began in December when Pickett's mother reported concerning behavior.
  • Pickett was charged in January.
  • Little was charged this week.

The players

Alexis Pickett

A 17-year-old student at Morristown High School in Shelbyville, Indiana, who has been charged as an adult with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at her school.

Melanie Little

A 17-year-old from Corinth, Mississippi, who has been charged as an adult with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at Morristown High School with Alexis Pickett.

Rhonda Nicholson

Alexis Pickett's mother, who approached sheriff's police with concerns about her daughter's behavior, leading to the investigation.

Brad Landwerlen

The Shelby County Prosecutor, who said Pickett's mother "saved a bunch of lives" by reporting her concerns.

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What they’re saying

“The mother saved a bunch of lives. What I say to parents is, 'It's OK to check your child's activities, see the conversations they're having.'”

— Brad Landwerlen, Shelby County Prosecutor (kwtx.com)

What’s next

Pickett's trial is set to start on April 20, and Indiana officials have begun the extradition process to bring Little back from Mississippi.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of parents and authorities being vigilant about potential warning signs of violence, and the need for continued efforts to address mental health issues and prevent school shootings from occurring.