Audio recordings have been released, capturing the encounter between law enforcement and Colin Gray, the father of the alleged Georgia school shooter, Colt Gray. The recordings reveal the father's account of the events leading up to the deadly rampage.
In the aftermath of the tragic Georgia school shooting that left four dead and nine wounded, authorities have released audio recordings shedding light on the interaction between law enforcement and the father of the alleged shooter, Colin Gray. The recordings, dating back to May 2023, offer a glimpse into the father's perspective on his son's behavior and the family's circumstances.
The audio captures the conversation between Colin Gray and a law enforcement officer, sparked by an anonymous report to the FBI that the 13-year-old Colt Gray had made threats online, including a possible threat to "shoot up a middle school" on the messaging app Discord.
Unveiling the Father's Perspective: Audio Recordings Shed Light on Georgia School Shooter's May 2023 Interaction with Police
During the visit, Colin Gray portrayed his son as a victim of bullying who struggled with the separation of his parents and an eviction. He emphasized Colt's academic successes and his passion for hunting, claiming that the boy understood the serious nature of firearms.
"He knows how serious it is, trust me," Colin Gray stated, adding that he had "been up to the school multiple times" to address the alleged bullying. He expressed frustration over the situation, asserting that he had tried to instill in Colt the importance of gun safety.
Unveiling the Father's Perspective: Audio Recordings Shed Light on Georgia School Shooter's May 2023 Interaction with Police
However, when questioned about the presence of weapons in the household, Colin Gray acknowledged that he owned firearms that were accessible to his son. He explained that deer hunting was a family activity and that Colt had recently shot his first deer.
"Like I'm pretty much in shock...I'm pissed off to be honest with you," Colin Gray said, expressing disbelief at the accusations against his son. He vowed to confiscate the firearms if he learned that Colt had indeed made threatening statements.
Unveiling the Father's Perspective: Audio Recordings Shed Light on Georgia School Shooter's May 2023 Interaction with Police
The officer reassured Colin Gray that the situation was being taken seriously and that Colt would be interviewed. The father agreed to fetch his son, and a brief exchange between the officer and Colt ensued. The officer seemed to find Colt credible, and they shared a laugh about people who lie to police.
The interaction ended with the officer stating that a report would be filed. The recordings concluded with Colin Gray expressing his concern for his son and reiterating his belief that Colt understood the gravity of the accusations.
Unveiling the Father's Perspective: Audio Recordings Shed Light on Georgia School Shooter's May 2023 Interaction with Police
Since the shooting, Colin Gray, now 54, has been charged with multiple offenses related to his son's alleged actions, including involuntary manslaughter, second-degree murder, and cruelty to children. Authorities allege that he knowingly allowed his son to possess a weapon. He is currently being held in the Barrow County jail.
The audio recordings provide a valuable insight into the family dynamics and the perceived behavior of the alleged shooter prior to the tragic events at Apalachee High School. As the investigation continues, these recordings will likely play a significant role in understanding the circumstances surrounding the shooting and its aftermath.
