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Tragic School Shooting Highlights Mistaken Identity and Warning Signs

KVIA•Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 9:00 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

A recent trial revealed critical details surrounding the September 4, 2024, shooting at Apalachee High School, where Colt Gray opened fire, killing four and injuring nine. Just before the incident, school officials mistakenly identified another student, Kolton Gray, while attempting to locate Colt due to alarming behavior and concerning texts. Colt's father, Colin Gray, faces charges of murder and manslaughter for allegedly providing Colt with a firearm despite prior warnings about his mental state. The trial has underscored the importance of recognizing red flags in youth behavior and the tragic consequences of miscommunication in crisis situations.

Key Details: • Shooting occurred on September 4, 2024, at Apalachee High School. • Colt Gray sent alarming texts to his father shortly before the shooting. • Mistaken identity led school officials to question Kolton Gray instead of Colt. • Colt Gray has pleaded not guilty to 55 felony counts, including four counts of malice murder. • Colin Gray, Colt's father, is also pleading not guilty to charges related to the shooting.

gun-violence mental-health trial school-shooting mistaken-identity

People & Organizations

Colin GrayColt GrayApalachee High SchoolWinder, GeorgiaMarcee GrayKolton GraySuzanne HarrisLisa ButlerDeigh MartinKatherine GreerLucas Beyer

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