2 Teens Charged with Attempted Murder for Alleged Indiana High School Shooting Plot

Authorities say the teens planned a mass shooting at Morristown High School in Shelbyville, Indiana.

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 for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at Morristown High School in Shelbyville, Indiana. The investigation began in December when Pickett's mother reported concerning behaviors, and the teens were found to have discussed plans for 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 taking potential warning signs seriously. 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, and Little, from Corinth, Mississippi, had detailed conversations over the communication app Discord about planning a mass shooting around the school's graduation on May 25. Pickett acknowledged having a desire to hurt others and owned firearms, including a muzzleloader. The two discussed how to obtain additional guns for the attack.

  • The investigation began in December when Pickett's mother reported concerning behaviors.
  • 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 was charged as an adult with attempted murder and conspiracy for allegedly plotting a mass shooting at her school.

Melanie Little

A 17-year-old from Corinth, Mississippi, who was also charged as an adult with attempted murder and conspiracy 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 and potential plans to harm others or herself.

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 (ksgf.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 after she refused to waive it.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of parents and authorities remaining vigilant for warning signs of potential violence, and the need for comprehensive approaches to address mental health issues and prevent school shootings from occurring.