Neshaminy Reacts To Student Charged In NYC Terror Plot

LANGHORNE, PA — The Neshaminy School District is reacting to one of its students being charged in the New York City terror plot over the weekend.

School officials provided some details about Emir Balat, an 18-year-old Neshaminy High School senior charged by federal authorities in an alleged "ISIS-inspired" terrorism plot.

Balet told authorities in a federal criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court of Southern New York on Monday that he wanted to carry out an attack "bigger than the Boston Marathon" one. "No, even bigger. That was only three deaths," Balet, a Middletown Township resident, told authorities.

Schools Superintendent Jason Bowman once again addressed the Neshaminy School Community on Monday afternoon after alerting families about the incident during an email on Sunday.

On Monday afternoon, Bowman said he received an update from U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick about the incident involving Balet at a protest in New York City on Saturday.

"Since learning the identity of the individual involved, the district has been in communication with our local law enforcement partners and will fully cooperate with the FBI as the investigation proceeds," Bowman said.

Bowman said that the "student in question" has not attended in-person classes at Neshaminy High School since this past September.

Bowman said Balet was enrolled in the district’s Virtual Academy and has been participating in school remotely.

"At this time, we have no information indicating any security concerns at the high school or at any of our district schools related to this situation," Bowman said. "Nevertheless, we remain vigilant and will continue to monitor developments closely in coordination with local law enforcement, the FBI, and Congressman Fitzpatrick’s office."

Fitzpatrick said he spoke with Bowman on Monday morning and offered his full support to ensure close coordination with federal authorities.

He said that the Neshaminy School Resource Officer will assist the FBI with their investigation.

Bowman said that any students or parents with questions or concerns should reach out to the school administration, high school counselor, or local police department.