Police have described the alleged perpetrator as an “introverted” 17-year-old student, who was also wounded. Isolated at home and school, he is said to have acted out months of pent-up resentment after spending hours consuming gruesome, violent content online.

Investigators said the teen was inspired by violence abroad. His toy gun bore the names of terrorists and extremist ideologies, and he had joined a social media group glorifying violence. Crucially, however, terrorism has been ruled out as a motive.

A forensic psychology researcher said the teen likely had deep emotional wounds and unresolved trauma, an assessment the police later confirmed, saying he had no safe outlet to express his thoughts or seek help.

Behavioral changes such as isolation, anger or fascination with violence are cries for help that must not be ignored. Parents, teachers and communities must take a more proactive role in observing and guiding children, especially in this digital age that amplifies alienation faster than care can catch up.

While a powerful tool for learning and creativity, the internet can also be a breeding ground for harm. From privacy violations to cyberbullying, sexual exploitation and exposure to extremist content, children are at risk online, especially when parental attention and supervision are lacking.

Schools must also fulfill the government mandate to establish violence prevention task forces, as the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) reminded the nation following the blasts. Such a task force is not a mere bureaucratic formality, but an essential support system that give vulnerable students a safe space to seek help before distress turns into tragedy.