Parents of Evergreen High School Shooter Not Charged

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The parents of the 16-year-old shooter who opened fire at Evergreen High School in September 2025, killing two students, will not face charges according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Investigators were unable to link the firearm used in the shooting to the parents after a DNA analysis, and the parents' attorney later provided a letter stating the gun was a family heirloom that was locked away and not accessible to the shooter.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in determining accountability when minors obtain firearms, even in tragic school shooting incidents. The inability to charge the parents has left the community seeking more answers and justice.

The details

On September 10, 2025, 16-year-old Desmond Holly shot and killed two students at Evergreen High School before dying by suicide. Investigators traced the Smith & Wesson .38 Special Revolver used in the shooting to its original owner in Florida, who had passed away. The parents' attorney later provided a letter stating the gun was a family heirloom that was locked away and not accessible to Holly.

• The shooting occurred on September 10, 2025.
• In January, the parents' attorney provided a letter to investigators.