Colt Gray

Federal and state prosecutors alleged that Colin Gray demonstrated criminal negligence by purchasing an assault rifle for his minor son and failing to secure it, despite knowing the boy's severe psychological issues, violent tendencies, and a prior law enforcement investigation. Out of the original 29 charges, two were dropped before trial, leaving 27 counts. Defense attorneys argued that the father had no criminal intent, was attempting to bond with his son through hunting and shooting sports, kept firearms unloaded, and was unaware of the minor's concealed dark internet activity. Following less than two hours of deliberation on March 3, 2026, the jury unanimously convicted Gray on all 27 counts, including two counts of second-degree murder, four counts of involuntary manslaughter, 18 counts of cruelty to children, and five counts of reckless conduct. On July 30, 2026, the court sentenced Colin Gray to 15 years in prison.

Colt Gray was indicted as an adult on 55 felony counts: four counts of malice murder, 20 counts of felony murder, 25 counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated battery, and four counts of first-degree cruelty to children. Court filings detailed extensive domestic dysfunction, chronic truancy, documented physical abuse, and unaddressed psychiatric issues. On July 24, 2026, Colt Gray waived his right to a trial and pleaded guilty to all 55 counts. On July 28, 2026, Judge Nicholas Primm sentenced him to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole plus 20 years, citing his idolization of mass murderers and absence of remorse. Colt remains in juvenile custody pending transfer to the state prison system at age 17.