Jury convicts suspected Georgia school shooter's father of murder

Colin Gray found guilty on 27 counts, including second-degree murder and manslaughter, for gifting son the rifle used in 2024 Apalachee High School shooting

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A Georgia jury has found Colin Gray, the father of Colt Gray who is accused of a 2024 mass shooting at Apalachee High School, guilty on 27 counts including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors presented evidence that Colin Gray was aware of his son's concerning behavior and affinity for mass shooters, but still gifted him an AR-15-style rifle that was used in the attack.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around parental responsibility and accountability when it comes to gun ownership, especially in cases where there are clear warning signs about a child's mental state and potential for violence. It also raises questions about the role of gun control and access to firearms in preventing mass shootings.

The details

Colin Gray was charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, reckless endangerment and cruelty to children for gifting his son Colt the rifle used in the 2024 Apalachee High School shooting. Prosecutors alleged that Colin Gray was aware of his son's concerning behavior and affinity for mass shooters, but failed to get him psychological help and instead gave him the weapon as a Christmas present.

  • On September 4, 2024, Colt Gray allegedly killed two students and two teachers and injured eight students in a mass shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia.
  • Colin Gray's two-week trial took place in early 2026, and the jury deliberated for less than two hours before returning their guilty verdicts on March 3, 2026.

The players

Colin Gray

The 55-year-old father of Colt Gray, who was convicted on 27 counts including second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for gifting his son the rifle used in the 2024 Apalachee High School shooting.

Colt Gray

The 16-year-old son of Colin Gray, who is accused of carrying out the 2024 mass shooting at Apalachee High School and is awaiting a separate trial on multiple counts of felony murder and aggravated assault.

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What they’re saying

“I struggle with it every day. He's a good kid, you know? He wasn't perfect, but to do something, uh, that heinous, like I don't, I don't know if anybody would see that type of evil.”

— Colin Gray, Defendant

“This is a weapon that I want you to shoot when we go to the range, and if you keep doing really good in school, going to school and doing all the things you should, you graduate and you're 18, this will be your gun.”

— Colin Gray, Defendant

What’s next

Colt Gray, the suspected shooter, is awaiting a separate trial on multiple counts of felony murder and aggravated assault. The judge in Colin Gray's case will also decide whether to allow him to be released on bail pending sentencing.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex issues surrounding parental responsibility, gun control, and mental health when it comes to preventing mass shootings. It underscores the need for greater awareness and intervention when there are clear warning signs, as well as stronger regulations around firearm access, especially for those with a history of concerning behavior.