Georgia High School Shooting Suspect's Father Faces Trial

Opening statements begin in case where prosecutors aim to hold parents responsible for child's deadly attack

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The trial of Colin Gray, the father of a teenager accused of killing two students and two teachers at a Georgia high school in 2024, is set to begin with opening statements on Monday. Prosecutors are charging Gray with crimes including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, arguing that he gave his son access to a gun and ammunition despite warnings about the teen's mental health issues and obsession with school shooters.

Why it matters

This case is part of a growing trend of prosecutors trying to hold parents accountable when their children are accused in fatal school shootings. It raises complex questions about parental responsibility, gun access, and mental health warning signs.

The details

Prosecutors allege that Colin Gray gave his 14-year-old son, Colt, access to a semiautomatic rifle and larger magazine, despite knowing about the teen's deteriorating mental health and fascination with past school shooters. Colt Gray is accused of carefully planning the September 2024 attack at Apalachee High School, where he allegedly shot and killed two students and two teachers.

  • The shooting occurred on September 4, 2024.
  • Colin Gray's trial is set to begin with opening statements on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Colin Gray

The father of the teenager accused in the Apalachee High School shooting, who is facing charges including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter.

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old son of Colin Gray, who is accused of carrying out the deadly shooting at Apalachee High School in 2024.

Apalachee High School

The Georgia high school where the 2024 shooting took place, which has an enrollment of around 1,900 students.

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What they’re saying

“'We have had a very difficult past couple of years and he needs help. Anger, anxiety, quick to be volatile. I don't know what to do,'”

— Colin Gray

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow Colin Gray out on bail during the trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing debate around parental responsibility in the wake of school shootings, as prosecutors seek new ways to hold adults accountable for their children's actions when warning signs were present but not properly addressed.