Father Convicted After Son Uses Gifted Gun in School Shooting

Colin Gray found guilty of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter after his son Colt used a gun he gifted him in a fatal school attack.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A father in the United States has been convicted of murder and manslaughter charges after giving his son a gun for Christmas that was then used in a fatal school shooting. Colin Gray was found guilty of second-degree murder in the deaths of two 14-year-old students and guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the killings of two teachers at Apalachee High School in Atlanta, Georgia in September 2024.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around gun control and the responsibility of parents when it comes to firearms and their children's mental health. It also raises questions about school safety and the need for stricter regulations around gun ownership, particularly when minors are involved.

The details

Authorities said Colt Gray, 14, meticulously planned the shooting, bringing a semiautomatic rifle to school in his book bag. He opened fire in a classroom and hallways, killing two students and two teachers, and injuring another educator and eight students. Colin Gray was found guilty of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for gifting his son the gun despite knowing of his deteriorating mental health.

  • The shooting occurred on September 4, 2024 at Apalachee High School in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • Colin Gray was convicted by a jury in March 2026.

The players

Colin Gray

The father of Colt Gray who was convicted of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for gifting his son a gun that was used in the fatal school shooting.

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old suspect who carried out the shooting at Apalachee High School, killing two students and two teachers. He pleaded not guilty to 55 charges including murder.

Mason Schermerhorn

One of the 14-year-old students killed in the shooting.

Christian Angulo

One of the 14-year-old students killed in the shooting.

Richard Aspinwall

One of the teachers killed in the shooting, he was 39 years old.

Cristina Irimie

One of the teachers killed in the shooting, she was 53 years old.

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What they’re saying

“We talk a lot about rights in our country. But God gave us a duty to protect our children, and I hope that we remember that, as parents, as community members, to protect our children because that is our God-given duty.”

— Brad Smith, Barrow County District Attorney

What’s next

A judge has scheduled a status hearing for Colt Gray's case in mid-March.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater accountability and responsibility when it comes to gun ownership, particularly when minors are involved. It also highlights the critical importance of addressing mental health issues and ensuring that parents and communities work together to protect children from harm.