Parents of Colorado School Shooter Won't Face Gun Charges

Sheriff's office says there's not enough evidence to charge parents for access to weapon used in attack.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 2:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The parents of a 16-year-old boy who wounded two students at a Colorado high school with an old revolver will not face any criminal charges, authorities said. Investigators looked at whether the parents could be charged for allowing access to the gun or not storing it safely, but decided there wasn't enough evidence. The family's lawyer said the gun was kept in a locked safe and the teen must have secretly taken it.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around gun ownership, storage, and liability when firearms are used in school shootings. It raises questions about how to balance individual rights with public safety, especially when it comes to securing weapons in homes with minors.

The details

Investigators found the parents' DNA was not on the Smith & Wesson .38 special revolver used in the attack. The family's lawyer said the gun, described as a family heirloom, was kept stored near the back of a large, locked gun safe, and the teen didn't have access except for brief times when it was opened by his father. Authorities believe the teen randomly shot at students at Evergreen High School.

  • The shooting occurred on September 10.
  • Investigators recently told the family's lawyer they won't be charging the parents.

The players

Desmond Holly

A 16-year-old boy who wounded two students at a Colorado high school before killing himself.

Douglas Richards

The family's lawyer, who said the gun used in the attack was a family heirloom kept in a locked safe.

Jacki Kelley

A spokesperson for the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, which investigated the case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Its disappearance didn't become apparent until after the tragedy.”

— Douglas Richards, Family Lawyer (The Associated Press)

What’s next

The sheriff's office said it has completed its investigation and will not be pursuing any charges against the parents.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges around gun ownership and liability, especially when firearms are accessed by minors and used in school attacks. It underscores the need for robust gun storage laws and enforcement to prevent such tragedies.