Trial Begins for Father of Apalachee High School Shooting Suspect

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Jury selection is set to begin Monday in the trial of Colin Gray, the father of the teenager accused of killing two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia in September 2024. Gray faces 29 counts, including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, for allegedly giving his son access to the gun and ammunition used in the attack.

Why it matters

This case is part of a growing trend of prosecutors charging parents when they believe the parents contributed to violence committed by their children. It raises questions about parental responsibility and the role of mental health in preventing school shootings.

The details

Investigators say the 14-year-old shooter, Colt Gray, carefully planned the attack, writing step-by-step plans in a notebook. Colin Gray had given his son the gun as a Christmas gift the year before and later bought him a larger magazine. Gray was also aware of his son's obsession with school shooters and deteriorating mental health, but did not seek adequate help.

• Jury selection is set to begin on Monday, February 9, 2026.
• The shooting at Apalachee High School occurred on September 4, 2024.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case has blocked off three weeks for jury selection and the trial. It's unknown how long the trial will last once testimony gets underway.