Trinity Shockley Identified as a Transgender Male, Influenced by Parkland Shooter Nikolas Cruz

Mooresville, IN – Authorities have released disturbing details about an 18-year-old Indiana teenager, Trinity Shockley, who is accused of plotting a mass shooting at Mooresville High School on Valentine’s Day. Shockley, who identifies as a transgender male and goes by the name Dex, allegedly harbored homicidal intentions and idolized the Parkland school shooter, Nikolas Cruz. The attack, according to court documents, had been planned for over a year.

Alarming Details and Motive

A police affidavit reveals that Shockley expressed a deep desire to kill others, with a fixation on Cruz. Shockley was reportedly emotionally attached to Cruz, even carrying a heart-shaped locket featuring Cruz’s photo. The teenager’s obsession with Cruz, and his violent tendencies, were deeply concerning to authorities. Shockley’s beliefs were allegedly grounded in a desire to prove themselves as Cruz’s “number one fan” and to show that they were part of a larger, violent ideology.

Shockley was reportedly not only planning the mass shooting but also had detailed intentions, including targeting their best friend first, as disclosed to a tipster. This individual, who contacted the authorities, also informed them that Shockley had access to an AR-15 rifle and had recently purchased a bulletproof vest. The tip led the FBI to issue a warning to local law enforcement on February 11, 2025.

Authorities Intervene

Following the tip, investigators took immediate action. The Mooresville Metropolitan Police Department, in cooperation with the Mooresville School Police and Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, executed a search warrant at Shockley’s residence. During the search, police discovered a disturbing collection of images and materials, including a collage featuring notorious mass shooters such as Nikolas Cruz, Dylann Roof (Charleston church shooter), and Randy Stair (supermarket shooter). This material, coupled with Shockley’s own statements, confirmed the severity of the planned attack.

Shockley was arrested on February 13, 2025, and prosecutors filed charges against them, including:

• Conspiracy to Commit Murder
• Two Counts of Intimidation with a Threat to Commit Terrorism

In an interview with police, Shockley allegedly revealed a chilling belief about life and death, claiming that people “should value their everyday life” because “you never know when you could die.” This statement reflected Shockley’s apparent nihilistic worldview and desire to inflict harm on others. However, Shockley also showed signs of doubt about the plan’s execution, expressing hesitation upon realizing the potential consequences of their actions. Shockley was reportedly unsettled at the thought of facing arrest and trial, saying they “did not want this” when seeing law enforcement officers.

The Path Forward

Despite the apparent internal conflict, Shockley’s plans seemed well-organized and meticulous, revealing a deeply troubling mindset. The case has raised serious concerns about the influence of mass shooters like Nikolas Cruz, whose violent actions have inspired others, especially those with already fragile or violent dispositions.

As Shockley faces charges, questions surrounding the factors that led to such extreme behavior—along with how society can better address mental health and prevent violence—are sure to remain at the forefront of the investigation. Local authorities, alongside federal agencies, are continuing to look into the teenager’s background and connections to further understand the roots of the plot.

The community of Mooresville remains on edge, relieved that the threat was intercepted, but disturbed by the troubling revelations surrounding the suspect’s motivations and plans.