Winder, Georgia, September 4, 2025
News Summary
The trial for Colin Gray, charged in connection with the Apalachee High School shooting, is scheduled to start on February 9, following a delay. Gray faces multiple serious felonies, including murder and cruelty to children, after allegedly allowing his son access to the weapon used in the incident that claimed four lives and injured nine others. The community continues to seek justice and calls for stronger gun regulations while grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy.
Winder, Georgia – The trial for Colin Gray, the father of 14-year-old Colt Gray, is set to begin on February 9, 2026, following a delay from its original date due to scheduling conflicts. Colin Gray faces serious charges related to the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School that occurred on September 4, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of four individuals and left nine others injured and hospitalized.
Colin Gray is charged with multiple felonies, including two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter, four counts of reckless conduct, and 19 counts of second-degree cruelty to children. It is alleged that he provided his son access to the AR-style rifle used in the fatal incident. Despite his not guilty plea and several motions to dismiss the case, Judge Nicholas Primm has denied these motions, which sought to suppress crucial evidence relating to Colin’s statements to investigators and the warrantless search of his home.
The shooting at Apalachee High School left a devastating impact on the community, claiming the lives of students Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo, as well as teachers Cristina Irimie and Richard Aspinwall. The incident not only resulted in fatalities but also caused physical and emotional trauma to the injured survivors and their families.
In a related case, Colt Gray has been charged with over 50 counts, including felony murder, aggravated assault, and aggravated battery. He is being tried as an adult and has pleaded not guilty. There have been discussions hinting at potential plea deal negotiations by his attorneys.
As the trial approaches, various commemorative events have taken place to honor the victims and address the community’s grief. On the one-year anniversary of the shooting, community members gathered for vigils and mental health support sessions aimed at healing. Some attendees called for stronger gun laws and school safety measures during demonstrations at the state capitol.
In the wake of the shooting, Barrow County authorities have implemented enhanced security measures across schools, such as weapon detection systems and an increase in school resource officers. Additionally, expedited sharing of student discipline records between districts has been prioritized to enhance safety protocols. The specific area of the school where the shooting took place, known as J-Hall, will remain closed for the 2025-2026 academic year, amidst undecided future use.
State lawmaker Michelle Au is among those advocating for tighter regulations on gun ownership and improved safety standards in schools. However, many proposed gun legislation initiatives have struggled to gain traction in the state legislature.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community continues to seek justice and safety measures that could prevent such tragedies from recurring in the future.
FAQ
What is the date for Colin Gray’s trial?
Colin Gray’s trial is set to start on February 9, 2026.
What charges does Colin Gray face?
He faces charges including two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter, four counts of reckless conduct, and 19 counts of second-degree cruelty to children.
What happened during the Apalachee High School shooting?
The shooting occurred on September 4, 2024, resulting in the deaths of two students and two teachers, along with injuries to nine other individuals.
What measures have been taken in Barrow County schools since the shooting?
Barrow County has implemented weapon detection systems, increased the number of school resource officers, and expedited the sharing of student discipline records between districts.
Is Colt Gray also facing trial?
Yes, Colt Gray has been charged with over 50 counts, including felony murder, and is being tried as an adult.
Key Features of the Incident and Legal Proceedings
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Trial Date for Colin Gray | February 9, 2026 |
| Charges Against Colin Gray | Two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter, four counts of reckless conduct, 19 counts of second-degree cruelty to children |
| Shooting Date | September 4, 2024 |
| Casualties | Four (2 students, 2 teachers) killed; 9 injured |
| Colt Gray’s Charges | Over 50 counts including felony murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery |
| Community Response | Candlelight vigils, calls for stronger gun laws, mental health support sessions |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- Wikipedia: School Shooting
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Google Search: Apalachee High School shooting
- WSB TV
- Google Scholar: School Safety Measures
- 11Alive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control Laws
- Fox 5 Atlanta Video Report
- Google News: Apalachee High School shooting trial
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