Georgia High School Shooting Suspect's Father Faces Trial

Colin Gray charged with multiple counts, including second-degree murder, in connection with 2024 attack

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The trial of Colin Gray, whose teenage son Colt Gray is accused of killing two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia in 2024, is set to begin. Colin 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 despite warnings about his son's mental health and obsession with school shooters.

Why it matters

This case is one of several around the country where prosecutors are trying to hold parents responsible after their children are accused in fatal shootings. It raises questions about parental responsibility, gun access, and mental health warning signs in the context of school violence.

The details

Prosecutors argue that Colin Gray's actions in providing his 14-year-old son with the gun and ammunition used in the attack, despite knowing about his son's mental health issues and obsession with school shooters, amounts to cruelty to children and second-degree murder. The trial was moved from Barrow County to nearby Hall County due to pretrial publicity.

  • The shooting occurred on September 4, 2024 at Apalachee High School.
  • Colin Gray gave his son the gun as a gift the Christmas before the shooting.
  • Jury selection was completed last week.

The players

Colin Gray

The father of the teenage suspect accused of carrying out the 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. He faces 29 criminal counts, including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, for allegedly providing his son with the gun and ammunition used in the attack.

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old son of Colin Gray who is accused of killing two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School in 2024. Prosecutors say he carefully planned the attack and used a semiautomatic rifle his father had given him as a gift.

Apalachee High School

The Georgia high school where the 2024 shooting took place, leaving two students and two teachers dead.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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 after opening statements.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around parental responsibility and accountability when it comes to gun access and warning signs of violence, especially in the context of school shootings that have devastated communities across the country.