Federal prosecutors have charged 18‑year‑old Trenton Touch of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, with making a threat against President Donald Trump. The indictment alleges Touch posted a photo of a firearm on Instagram on June 21, 2026, accompanied by the messages “it’s time,” “I’m gonna kill Trump,” and a boast about shooting accuracy.
Investigation and evidence
Law‑enforcement officials say they were alerted to four Instagram accounts containing violent content, including the threat against the president, on September 10, 2026. Investigators allege Touch owned all four accounts. In addition to the direct threat, the charging documents note that Touch referenced past mass shooters, called them “heroes,” and cited the Christchurch attacks in New Zealand that killed 51 people.
A search of Touch’s home on Grasshopper Lane turned up a revolver‑style firearm, military‑style camouflage clothing, a ballistic helmet, military‑style knives and a hatchet. The presence of these items, combined with the online posts, formed the basis for the federal charge, which carries up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
State charges and court appearances
Touch also faces state charges for possession of a firearm without a Firearms Identification (FID) card, possession of ammunition without an FID card, and improper storage of a firearm. He was arraigned in Lowell District Court on October 26 and was ordered to post $50,000 cash bail and to refrain from possessing any firearms. A federal hearing is scheduled in Boston on November 9.
Local reaction
Neighbors described the early‑morning police activity as unsettling. “When I looked out there had to be at least 12 vehicles,” said Richard Frank, who lives a few houses down from the residence. “They put him in the car, there was all kinds of vulgarity going on. About a half hour later, it was all over, everyone was gone.”
Tewksbury Police Chief Ryan Columbus thanked the FBI for its assistance, noting that the joint effort “may have prevented a mass casualty incident and saved lives.”
Federal officials’ statements
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley called the alleged threat “grave” and said it could not be ignored. “Trenton Touch is an individual whose alleged threats could not be ignored,” Foley said. FBI Boston Division Special Agent in Charge Ted E. Docks added, “There’s no question Mr. Touch posed a grave threat to public safety.”
What this means for the community
The case underscores the importance of vigilant online monitoring and swift cooperation between local law‑enforcement and federal agencies. Residents are reminded that threats of violence, especially those directed at public officials, are taken seriously and can result in both federal and state prosecution.
Authorities encourage anyone who encounters similar threats or extremist content online to report it immediately to local police or the FBI.
Original reporting: WMUR (Hearst) – local news — read the source article.
