Mother of Antioch School Shooter Surrenders in Las Vegas

Chrysta Thomas, 40, faces charge of unlawful gun possession by a convicted felon

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:15pm

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The mother of the Antioch school shooter, 40-year-old Chrysta Thomas, has surrendered to police in Las Vegas on an outstanding warrant. Thomas was wanted after a DNA analysis linked her to the gun used by her son, 17-year-old Solomon Henderson, in the murder-suicide at Antioch High School over a year ago.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex family dynamics and legal issues that can surround tragic school shootings, with the shooter's mother now facing charges related to the crime. It also raises questions about gun ownership, background checks, and the role of parents in preventing such incidents.

The details

Police said Thomas declined to be interviewed and was booked on a charge of unlawful gun possession by a convicted felon. Her bond was set at $5,000. Detectives learned that Thomas' family moved out of their Antioch home shortly after the school shooting in January 2025, in which her son Solomon Henderson was the sole shooter.

  • On January 22, 2025, Solomon Henderson carried out a murder-suicide at Antioch High School.
  • On January 21, 2026, police said they were looking for Chrysta Thomas after a DNA analysis linked her to the gun used in the shooting.
  • On January 28, 2026, Chrysta Thomas surrendered to police in Las Vegas on the outstanding warrant.

The players

Chrysta Thomas

The 40-year-old mother of the Antioch school shooter, who has a 2010 felony conviction in Los Angeles for possession of a stolen vehicle.

Solomon Henderson

The 17-year-old son of Chrysta Thomas, who was the sole shooter in the murder-suicide at Antioch High School in January 2025.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Chrysta Thomas' bond and whether she will be allowed out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex legal and family issues that can surround school shootings, with the shooter's mother now facing charges related to the crime. It raises questions about gun ownership, background checks, and the role of parents in preventing such incidents.