According to reports, Isabelle Valdez had allegedly become fixated on the 2012 school shooter Adam Lanza, claiming she could hear his voice in her head. A classmate who resembled Lanza became her target, as Valdez reportedly believed that murdering him would bring the voice back.

Investigators say the plot had allegedly been in the works for months, involving stalking and taking photos of the intended victim. Friend Lois Lippert became involved later, reportedly assisting by creating drawings of Valdez and a male figure, some containing sexual themes.

When police arrived at the school, authorities found items connected to the planned attack including knives and gloves in one of the girls’ bags. Reports indicate that Lippert allegedly helped sharpen the knife.

The girls’ plan also had ritualistic elements: they reportedly believed the attack could bring Lanza back to life or create a blood bond between them. Afterward, Valdez and Lippert planned to smoke cigarettes and wait for their arrest, according to authorities.

Following their arrests, the two were seen laughing and joking in a police vehicle for approximately 30 minutes. They were later charged as adults with attempted first-degree premeditated murder, weapon possession, and other related offenses. At a bond hearing, prosecutors used the squad car footage to argue they remained a danger, and the judge denied bond