A shooting occurred at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia, at around 10:20 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4. The suspected shooter, 14-year-old student Colt Gray, has been taken into custody. The shooting resulted in four fatalities, including two students and two teachers, whose identities have not yet been released. Additionally, nine people were injured and have been transported to hospitals.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene within minutes. The school was quickly evacuated, and students and staff were escorted to safety at the school’s football stadium.
Chris Hosey, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, provided details on the law enforcement response. “There were two resource officers already on scene, who immediately encountered the subject within just minutes of the report going out,” Hosey said. “The subject immediately surrendered to these officers and he was taken into custody.” Hosey confirmed that Gray will be charged with murder and tried as an adult.
CNN reported that multiple law enforcement officials said Apalachee High School received a phone call on Wednesday morning warning that there would be shootings at five schools. Apalachee would be the first.
The caller has not been identified, but CNN reports officials that they are investigating the call and its origin.
“Jill and I are mourning the deaths of those whose lives were cut short due to more senseless gun violence and thinking of all of the survivors whose lives are forever changed.” – President Joe Biden
President Joe Biden offered his condolences to the victims of the shooting. “We are closely coordinating with officials at the federal, state and local level,” he said, “and are grateful for the first responders who brought the suspect into custody and prevented further loss of life.”
At this time, there is no additional information about the shooter or the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
For current students and alumni of Apalachee High School now attending the University of North Georgia, support services are available. The UNG Student Counseling Center is open to all affected students, offering counseling and support. Students can reach out to the center at (706) 867-4402 to make an appointment. Additionally, students can visit https://app.uwill.com to get free, immediate access to teletherapy and a direct crisis connection.
