Apalachee High School Shooting Victims: Who Were They?

The Apalachee High School shooting in Winder, Georgia, remains one of the most heartbreaking school tragedies in recent U.S. history. On September 4, 2024, four innocent people lost their lives when a student opened fire inside the school.

As the legal proceedings surrounding the case continue to make headlines, many people are searching for information about the victims whose lives were tragically cut short. This article remembers the four victims, explains what happened, and provides the latest updates on the case.

Who Were the Victims of the Apalachee High School Shooting?

The shooting claimed the lives of four people—two students and two teachers.

Christian Angulo

Christian Angulo was a 14-year-old freshman at Apalachee High School. Friends and classmates described him as kind, respectful, and always willing to help others. His death deeply affected students throughout the school and the wider Barrow County community.

Mason Schermerhorn

Mason Schermerhorn, also 14 years old, was remembered as a caring and energetic student who enjoyed spending time with friends and family. Teachers described him as someone with a bright future whose life ended far too soon.

Richard Aspinwall

Richard Aspinwall was a mathematics teacher and assistant football coach at Apalachee High School.

Known for encouraging students both inside and outside the classroom, Aspinwall dedicated his career to education and mentoring young people. Students and fellow staff members remembered him for his patience, leadership, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Cristina Irimie

Cristina Irimie was a mathematics teacher who inspired countless students through her passion for teaching.

Originally from Romania, she built a career in education in the United States and became known for her kindness, professionalism, and dedication to her students. Friends and colleagues remembered her as someone who genuinely cared about every student she taught.

What Happened at Apalachee High School?

On the morning of September 4, 2024, authorities say a 14-year-old student entered Apalachee High School carrying an AR-style rifle concealed inside a rolled poster board.

The suspect allegedly opened fire inside the school, killing four people and injuring nine others before being taken into custody.

The shooting prompted a large emergency response involving local law enforcement, emergency medical teams, and state agencies.

The tragedy shocked the community of Winder, Georgia, and drew national attention as one of the deadliest school shootings in the state's history.

Community Response

Following the tragedy, thousands of people gathered for memorial services, candlelight vigils, and community events honoring the victims.

Local churches, schools, and organizations organized fundraisers to support the victims' families while counselors were made available to students, teachers, and residents affected by the tragedy.

Flowers, handwritten notes, stuffed animals, and school memorabilia were placed outside Apalachee High School as people paid their respects.

Lasting Legacy

Although their lives were tragically cut short, the four victims continue to be remembered by classmates, coworkers, family members, and the wider Georgia community.

Many local initiatives have focused on supporting school safety improvements, student mental health resources, and scholarships created in memory of those who lost their lives.

Their stories continue to remind communities across the country of the lasting impact school violence has on families, educators, and students.

Latest Developments

The case returned to national headlines in July 2026, when Colt Gray, the teenager charged in the shooting, pleaded guilty to all charges related to the attack.

Separately, his father, Colin Gray, was convicted in a landmark prosecution after prosecutors argued that he knowingly allowed his son access to the firearm used in the shooting despite warning signs.

The legal proceedings continue to draw nationwide attention because they may influence future cases involving parental responsibility and firearm access.

Timeline

September 4, 2024

• Shooting occurs at Apalachee High School.
• Four people are killed.
• Nine others are injured.

September 2024

• Community memorials and vigils take place across Barrow County.

March 2026

• Colin Gray is convicted on multiple criminal charges connected to the case.

July 2026

• Colt Gray pleads guilty to all charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many victims died in the Apalachee High School shooting?

Four people were killed: two students and two teachers.

Who were the student victims?

The student victims were Christian Angulo and Mason Schermerhorn, both 14-year-old freshmen.

Who were the teacher victims?

The teachers who lost their lives were Richard Aspinwall, a math teacher and assistant football coach, and Cristina Irimie, a mathematics teacher.

Where did the shooting happen?

The shooting occurred at Apalachee High School in Winder, Barrow County, Georgia.

When did the shooting happen?

The attack took place on September 4, 2024.

Remembering the Victims

The Apalachee High School shooting was more than a major news event—it was a devastating loss for families, classmates, teachers, and an entire community. Christian Angulo, Mason Schermerhorn, Richard Aspinwall, and Cristina Irimie are remembered not for the tragedy that claimed their lives, but for the positive impact they had on those around them.

As the legal process continues, their memories remain at the center of conversations about school safety, responsible firearm storage, and protecting students and educators from future acts of violence.