Georgia High School Shooting Suspect's Father Faces Trial

Opening statements to begin in case where prosecutors seek to hold parent responsible

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. Gray faces 29 counts, including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, for allegedly giving his son access to the gun used in the shooting despite warnings about his mental health issues.

Why it matters

This case is part of a growing trend where prosecutors are trying to hold parents accountable when their children are accused in fatal school shootings. It raises questions about parental responsibility and whether more can be done to prevent such tragedies.

The details

Prosecutors argue that Gray's actions in providing his 14-year-old son Colt with the gun and ammunition used in the shooting, 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 is being held in Winder, Georgia, where the shooting took place, with jurors selected from a nearby county due to pretrial publicity.

  • The shooting occurred on September 4, 2024 at Apalachee High School.
  • Opening statements in the trial of Colin Gray are expected to begin on Monday.

The players

Colin Gray

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

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old son of Colin Gray who is accused of killing two students and two teachers in the 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia.

Apalachee High School

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

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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 after the opening statements.

The takeaway

This trial highlights the growing debate around parental responsibility in school shootings, as prosecutors seek to hold parents accountable for their children's actions when warning signs were present. It raises complex questions about mental health, gun access, and the role of parents in preventing such tragedies.