Funerals for Teen Boy and Math Teacher Killed in Georgia High School Shooting
JEFFERSON, Ga. – The community of Jefferson, Georgia, came together on Saturday to mourn the loss of a teenage boy and a beloved math teacher who were tragically killed in a high school shooting. Fourteen-year-old Mason Schermerhorn and 53-year-old teacher Christina Irimie were remembered for their bright smiles and dedication to their school community. The memorial services for both victims drew family, friends, and supporters who gathered to say their final goodbyes.
Mason Schermerhorn was described by his neighbor, Tommy Pickett, as a young boy who grew into a teenager always wearing a smile. His memorial service, held at a civic center in Jefferson, was expected to be attended by a large number of people who wanted to pay their respects to the young victim. Mason’s untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, as they remember him for his inquisitive nature and infectious laughter.
Christina Irimie, who immigrated to the United States from Romania over 20 years ago, was known not only for her dedication to teaching algebra but also for her involvement in the local Romanian expat community. She taught children dance in addition to math and was a beloved member of the metro Atlanta area. Her funeral service, which included readings and remembrances in both English and Romanian, was held at a funeral home in Buford, followed by a memorial meal at a local church.
The funerals of Mason and Christina provided an opportunity for the grieving community of Apalachee High School to come together and mourn the loss of their fellow students and teachers. The tragic event, which took the lives of four individuals and injured several others, has left a lasting impact on the school and the surrounding area. While other schools in Barrow County have reopened, Apalachee High School remains closed as students and faculty continue to cope with the aftermath of the shooting.
In addition to Mason and Christina, the high school shooting also claimed the lives of math teacher Richard Aspinwall and student Christian Angulo. A private funeral was held for Aspinwall, who was also a defensive coordinator for the school’s football team. The community has come together to support the families of the victims and honor their memories through various memorial services and gatherings.
Authorities have charged a 14-year-old student, Colt Gray, with murder in connection to the high school shooting. Colt’s father has also been charged with second-degree murder for providing his son with the weapon used in the attack. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation reported that Colt surrendered to school resource officers shortly after the shooting, with the semiautomatic rifle concealed in his backpack.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of Mason, Christina, Richard, and Christian, they are reminded of the importance of coming together in times of tragedy. The impact of the high school shooting has reverberated throughout Jefferson and beyond, serving as a sobering reminder of the need for unity and support in the face of senseless violence. The funerals of the victims have provided a space for healing and reflection as the community strives to honor their memories and seek justice for those lost in the tragic event.
