Father Convicted in Deadly Georgia School Shooting

Colin Gray found guilty on 27 felony counts related to 2024 attack at Apalachee High School

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

The conviction of Colin Gray on March 3, 2026, on 27 felony counts related to the September 4, 2024, shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, marks a pivotal moment in how the legal system addresses parental responsibility in cases of school violence. Gray provided the weapon used in the shooting to his 14-year-old son, Colt Gray, who is accused of killing four people and injuring nine others.

Why it matters

This case, alongside the 2024 Michigan school shooting case involving Jennifer and James Crumbley, signals a potential shift towards greater accountability for parents whose children commit such horrific acts. The legal implications of ignoring clear warning signs are becoming increasingly significant.

The details

Prosecutors argued that Colin Gray knowingly armed his son despite documented warning signs, including concerning behavior at school and violent tendencies at home. The defense maintained that Colt Gray alone was responsible for his actions. Evidence presented during the trial included body-camera footage of Colin Gray expressing awareness of the potential for tragedy after the shooting.

  • The tragic events at Apalachee High School unfolded on September 4, 2024.
  • Colin Gray was convicted on March 3, 2026.

The players

Colin Gray

The father who provided the weapon used in the Apalachee High School shooting and was convicted on 27 felony counts.

Colt Gray

The 14-year-old son of Colin Gray who is accused of killing four people and injuring nine others in the Apalachee High School shooting.

Marcee Gray

The estranged wife of Colin Gray who testified about her repeated pleas for him to secure the firearms and seek mental health support for their son.

Mason Schermerhorn

A student who was killed in the Apalachee High School shooting.

Christian Angulo

A student who was killed in the Apalachee High School shooting.

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What they’re saying

“I could have done more.”

— Colin Gray (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

A trial date has not yet been set for Colt Gray, who faces 55 counts, including murder, and has pleaded not guilty.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical importance of responsible gun ownership, mental health awareness, and proactive intervention when warning signs are present. The legal ramifications of these tragedies are still unfolding, but one thing is clear: the conversation around parental responsibility in preventing school violence is here to stay.