Remembering the Apalachee High School Shooting

On September 4, 2024, the community of Winder, Georgia, was forever changed by a tragic act of violence at Apalachee High School. What should have been a day of learning turned into one of heartbreak, as two students and two beloved teachers lost their lives, and nine others were injured.

The Victims

The deceased victims were identified as:

• Students: Mason Schermerhorn (14) and Christian Angulo (14)

• Teachers: Richard Aspinwall (39), a math teacher and assistant football coach, and Cristina Irimie (53), a dedicated math teacher

Their loss is immeasurable, felt not only within the school but throughout the wider community. Vigils held in the days following were a powerful reminder of the love and unity that remain even in tragedy.

The Incident

Around 10:20 a.m., a 14-year-old student, Colt Gray, opened fire inside the school. Authorities confirmed that he used a semi-automatic AR-15-style rifle, killing four and injuring nine others before being taken into custody. His father, Colin Gray, now also faces charges for knowingly allowing his son access to the weapon.

The Aftermath

Students and staff endured lockdowns, confusion, and fear as law enforcement—including the Georgia State Patrol and FBI—flooded the campus. Those injured were treated at local hospitals and are expected to recover physically, though the emotional toll will linger.

The school reopened on September 24, with renewed calls for school safety measures, including increased security funding and wearable panic alert systems.

A Community United

While no measure can undo the pain of that September morning, the resilience of the Apalachee community is evident. Through vigils, support groups, and advocacy for safer schools, the victims’ memories live on—not only as names on a list but as students, teachers, friends, and mentors who will never be forgotten.