Father of alleged Apalachee shooter pleads not guilty

FILE - Colin Gray, the father of Apalachee High School shooter Colt Gray, enters the Barrow County courthouse for his first appearance, Sept. 6, 2024, in Winder, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson, Pool, File)

The father of the teenage shooter accused of killing four people at Apalachee High School entered a not guilty plea in court Thursday morning.

On Nov. 21, Colin Gray pled not guilty to 29 charges, including second-degree murder. His 14-year-old son, Colt, also pled not guilty during an October court appearance and was charged with 55 counts, including first-degree murder.

The charges stem from the September murders of two teachers and two students. Colin Gray’s trial could set a precedent in Georgia if prosecutors successfully argue that his providing a rifle to his son amounts to manslaughter or, at worst, second-degree murder.

Meanwhile, part of the school in Winder building remains closed, and some students are attending classes at an offsite location. School leaders are also considering possible safety enhancements, including metal detectors, clear backpacks, and increased security.

This article comes to Now Habersham in partnership with GPB News