Education
Mass Shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia
A tragic shooting incident occurred on Wednesday morning at Apalachee High School located in Winder, Georgia. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has identified the suspect as a 14-year-old male student, Colt Gray. He is now in custody and will be treated as an adult under the law.
Reports indicate that at least four individuals have been killed, and nine others have sustained injuries during the shooting. Eyewitness accounts and preliminary information provided by law enforcement sources suggest that the number of injuries may be higher, with indications that roughly 30 individuals were affected.
The shooting triggered panic as students and faculty members sought safety. Schools throughout Barrow County were placed on lockdown in response to this active threat. Officials disclosed that Apalachee High School had received a threatening phone call earlier in the day, warning of potential shootings at multiple schools, with Apalachee designated as the first target.
Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, where several ambulances and law enforcement vehicles responded to the crisis. Students were evacuated to the football field, where a prayer circle was formed while they awaited further instructions and reunification with their families.
Local hospitals, including Grady Health System and Piedmont Athens Regional Hospital, reported receiving victims, ranging from minors to adults, with various injuries. Authorities have not yet provided a complete overview of the casualties, as a detailed investigation is currently underway.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has announced that all state resources will be mobilized to provide assistance in response to this tragic occurrence. He expressed condolences and called for prayers for the safety of students and faculty in Barrow County and across the state.