The family of Georgia school shooting suspect Colt Gray is defending themselves against claims that they come from a low-income, uneducated background. A relative of Colt’s mother stated that the family is actually made up of regular people and not what some have described as white trash.
The relative emphasized that most of Colt’s maternal relatives are middle-class, with college degrees and good jobs. They were reacting to reports that Colt, 14, who allegedly shot and killed two classmates and two teachers at Apalachee High School, was raised in a troubled home.
Since the shooting, there have been reports suggesting Colt came from a neglectful environment. A former neighbor and landlord said that the family home was often visited by child protective services and that the children sometimes appeared dirty and hungry.
Colt’s mother, Marcee Gray, has a history of drug and domestic violence issues and is estranged from her family. The relative explained that Marcee had previously fallen into bad company and struggled with addiction, which has led to her separation from her family.
Marcee’s husband, Colin Gray, who has also been charged in connection with the shooting, was said to be unable to maintain a job and set a poor example for his son. Colin, 54, was arrested for buying the AR-15-style rifle used in the shooting as a Christmas gift.
Both Colt and Colin Gray appeared in court on Friday, facing severe legal consequences. The family hopes for intensive therapy and rehabilitation for Colt and is seeking the best legal representation for him. They are also sympathetic to the victims’ families but believe Colt is a victim of his circumstances as well.