Georgia school shooting: suspect Colt Gray acted after just three days

Colt Gray, a 14-year-old student, brought an assault-style rifle to Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, on September 4, just three days after starting there. During the second period, he left the classroom with his backpack, which contained the firearm, and hid in a bathroom. A teacher allowed him to leave, but a student noticed the gun and backed away from the door. This incident resulted in the tragic deaths of two teachers and two students. Authorities have revealed that Gray's father, Colin Gray, faces serious charges, including involuntary manslaughter and second-degree murder, for allegedly purchasing the rifle as a Christmas gift for his son. He is currently held without bond and has requested separation from other inmates due to threats against him. This incident has raised significant concerns about gun safety and mental health measures in Georgia. In the months leading up to the shooting, Colt Gray had been previously interviewed by law enforcement after an FBI tip suggested he threatened to shoot up a middle school. During this interview, both he and his father denied any knowledge of such threats, with the father claiming to be teaching his son about firearm safety. However, the tragic events that unfolded indicate a failure in addressing the warning signs. In response to the shooting, Georgia House Speaker Jon Burns has called for new policies aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future. The community is now grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event, highlighting the urgent need for discussions around gun control and mental health support in schools.