Former student accused of threat tried to obtain gun, affidavit says

The former student accused of posting a threat to students at Boulder’s Fairview High School this week took steps to try to obtain a gun and ammunition, according to an arrest affidavit.

Esteban Yegian, 18, was arrested on suspicion of inciting the destruction of life or property and interference with an educational institution.

Yegian remains in custody at the Boulder County jail on $100,000 bond, though the Boulder County District Attorney’s Office requested a $250,000 bond “given the allegations in this case.”

He is set for formally charged on Monday.

“The District Attorney’s Office appreciates the quick response by community members and the Boulder Police Department,” the DA’S office said in a statement. “This case is in the very early stages, but our office will continue to keep the community informed of any developments.”

According to the affidavit, several social media posts made by Yegian on Wednesday were reported to police as well as through the Safe2tell hotline.

The posts, made on Yegian’s Instagram account, depict an “inferno-like” scene in which a central demonic figure was photoshopped with Yegian’s head. The figure appears to be fighting off nine other figures that were photoshopped with the pictures of Fairview High students, according to the affidavit.

The post also featured text that read, “Unbeknownst to you, you’ve caused more misery than your worth. Your ashes have more numerical value then your existence. MY WILL BE DONE,” according to the affidavit.

A Snapchat image from Yegian’s account also shows him trying to buy 12-gauge shotgun shells, according to court records.

According to an affidavit, a friend of Yegian’s told police that the night before the threats were posted, Yegian asked about buying an “assault rifle” from the friend’s father. The friend said he knew Yegian was “violent” and did not sell him any guns.

As a result of the posts, the Boulder Valley School District sent extra security to the campus. While the school never went on secure status or lockdown, police said the scene at the school was “one of chaos” as news of the posts spread.

“The staff of the school was overwhelmed taking calls, informing parents of what was happening at the school for the day. Many of the students… were fearful after learning of the threat to the school. Many of them decided to go home for the day, since they were worried about what may happen. Many of the students’ parents were showing up to the school and calling in, concerned about their child’s welfare.”

Boulder police interviewed Yegian at his home in Boulder on Wednesday. Yegian acknowledged making the posts but said he was only doing it to “troll” the students in the post, according to the affidavit.

Yegian also acknowledged trying to obtain guns and ammunition, but said that was for hunting, according to the affidavit.

Police found a BB gun at the home and several axes and knives in Yegian’s room, according to court records.