Father of Teen Charged in Georgia School Shooting Faces Trial

Prosecutors argue the father is criminally culpable for failing to prevent his son's deadly attack.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The father of Colt Gray, a 16-year-old accused of killing two students and two teachers at his Georgia high school in 2024, is now on trial. Prosecutors allege the father, Colin Gray, is criminally responsible because he failed to address warning signs and even gave his son the AR-15-style rifle used in the attack as a Christmas gift.

Why it matters

This trial is a high-profile test of the growing push to hold parents accountable when their children commit mass shootings. Supporters say it brings needed accountability, while critics argue it unfairly scapegoats parents and is a poor substitute for gun control legislation.

The details

Colt Gray is accused of hiding an AR-15-style rifle in his backpack and opening fire at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia in 2024, killing four people and injuring nine others. His father, Colin Gray, was soon after charged with second-degree murder and other counts, as prosecutors argued he failed to address warning signs and gave his son the weapon used in the attack.

  • In 2023, the sheriff's office visited the Gray family after the FBI received anonymous tips that a Discord user had threatened to 'shoot up a middle school'.
  • The deadly shooting occurred on September 4, 2024 at Apalachee High School.
  • The trial of Colin Gray began a week ago with jury selection.

The players

Colt Gray

A 16-year-old accused of carrying out the deadly 2024 shooting at his Georgia high school.

Colin Gray

The father of Colt Gray, who is on trial for second-degree murder and other charges related to the shooting.

Chris Hosey

The director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, who said the charges against Colin Gray were 'directly connected with the actions of his son and allowing him to possess a weapon.'

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.