Father of Accused Apalachee High Shooter Testifies in Own Defense

Colin Gray says he gave his son the rifle used in the attack as a Christmas gift, hoping it would bring them closer.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 6:20pm

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In emotional testimony, the father of the accused Apalachee High School shooter, Colt Gray, told jurors that he gave his son the rifle used in the attack as a Christmas gift, hoping it would bring them closer through hunting trips and time at the gun range. Colin Gray faces charges including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for providing the weapon to his then-14-year-old son, who is accused of killing two teachers and two students in the September 2024 shooting.

Why it matters

This case is part of a growing number nationwide in which parents are being charged in connection with school shootings carried out by their children. It raises questions about parental responsibility, mental health support, and access to firearms.

The details

Colin Gray took the stand in his own defense, describing how he presented the Sig Sauer rifle to his son after the family opened Christmas presents in 2023. Gray testified he told Colt the gun would be used for supervised trips to the range and hunting, and that it would become Colt's only if he stayed in school and graduated. Prosecutors argue Gray made that decision despite warning signs about Colt's mental health and behavior.

  • In September 2024, Colt Gray allegedly carried out a shooting at Apalachee High School that left two teachers and two students dead and several others injured.
  • In December 2023, Colin Gray gave his then-14-year-old son Colt the rifle used in the attack as a Christmas gift.
  • The trial of Colin Gray began in February 2026.

The players

Colin Gray

The father of the accused Apalachee High School shooter, Colt Gray, who is facing charges including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for providing the weapon to his son.

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old accused of carrying out the September 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School, which left two teachers and two students dead and several others injured. Colt Gray faces 55 counts, including murder and aggravated assault.

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What they’re saying

“This is a weapon that I want you to shoot when we go to the range,”

— Colin Gray (cbsnews.com)

“He's a good kid. He wasn't perfect, and nor was I. But to do something that heinous, I don't know of anybody that can ever see that kind of evil. Like the Colt I knew and the relationship I had, there's this whole other side of Colt I didn't know existed.”

— Colin Gray (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

A trial date for Colt Gray has not been set as officials wait on a psychological evaluation. His next hearing is scheduled for March 18.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex issues surrounding parental responsibility, mental health support, and access to firearms in the context of school shootings. It raises questions about how to prevent such tragedies and hold all parties accountable.