Colin Gray, the father of alleged Georgia school shooter Colt Gray, pleaded not guilty to charges, including two counts of second-degree murder. He did not appear in court, and his attorney entered the plea on his behalf. Gray faces a total of 29 charges, including two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of involuntary manslaughter. The grand jury indictment stated that Gray provided his son with access to a firearm and ammunition despite knowing the potential risks.
This case is significant as Colin Gray is only the third person in the US to be charged in connection with a school shooting by their child. The Crumbley parents were found guilty of involuntary manslaughter for allowing their son to have a gun, which resulted in a school shooting in Michigan. In the Georgia case, investigators revealed that Colin Gray purchased the AR-15-style rifle allegedly used in the shooting as a Christmas present for Colt Gray, even after law enforcement had questioned the family about online threats related to a school shooting.
Colt Gray, who is charged with killing two students and two teachers at Apalachee High School, will be tried as an adult. He has also entered a not guilty plea. Both father and son have been in jail since their arrests, with no request for bond made by their defense attorney.
The prosecution recently issued subpoenas to local shooting ranges and Amazon for information related to the Grays’ activities. The Barrow County Sheriff’s Office praised the quick response of deputies to the scene of the shooting, which helped prevent further casualties. This contrasts with previous incidents where law enforcement delayed confronting the shooter.
School shootings remain a pressing issue in the United States, with 76 incidents reported so far this year. The statistics show the devastating impact of gun violence on campuses across the country, highlighting the urgent need for stricter gun control measures and improved school safety protocols. The ongoing legal proceedings in the Gray case will shed further light on the responsibilities of parents in preventing such tragic events.
