WINDER, Ga. — As a community grieves the loss of two students and two teachers and nine other victims injured during an active shooter situation at Apalachee High School on Wednesday, those who feel their pain are stepping in to help.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said that 14-year-old Colt Gray, a student at the high school, opened fire inside the high school around 10 a.m. Wednesday. The victims were identified as two teachers, Richard Aspinwall, 39, and Christina Irmie, 53, and two students, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo, both 14.
GBI reported that Gray is facing murder charges following his arrest. Authorities are currently investigating how he obtained the automatic rifle used in the shooting and managed to bring it into the school.
Gov. Brian Kemp and President Joe Biden, among others, have expressed their condolences and pledged support for the victims, their families and first responders. In response to the tragedy, the Barrow County School District canceled classes and offered crisis counseling to affected students and staff.
How to help those affected by the Apalachee High School shooting
The following fundraisers have been verified to assist victims' families and others impacted by the shooting.
Assist Shayna Aspinwall
A GoFundMe was launched to help Richard Aspinwall's family cover his funeral expenses and other costs in the wake of his death. The fundraiser has a goal of $125,000. Click this link for more details.
Funeral services for Christian Angulo
Christian Angulo's older sister started a fundraiser to cover funeral expenses for the family. The fundraiser has a goal of $30,000 with the proceeds going toward Angulo's family. Click here for more details.
Apalachee High School Shooting Victims' Fund
Families of over two decades of previous mass shootings from across the United States started a GoFundMe campaign to assist victims of the Apalachee High School shooting. The fundraiser's goal is to raise $200,000 for those affected by the tragedy.
"Our hearts break for the victims and survivors of the mass shooting at Apalachee High School where 4 students were murdered and 30 others were wounded/injured on September 4, 2024," the online fundraiser reads in part. Click here for more details.
Barrow Community Crisis Fund
The Barrow Community Foundation activated the Barrow Community Crisis Fund in response to the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School. The fund is dedicated to providing immediate support to organizations that assist Barrow County residents during times of crisis. Donations will be dedicated to the recovery of families, students and staff impacted by the shooting through June 30, 2025.
Donations can be made by clicking this link or by calling 770-410-8655.
In addition, there will be a Community Recovery Center (CRC) to support those affected by the Apalachee High School tragedy. It will officially open on September 9 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Barrow County Leisure Services Center. Starting September 10 the CRC will operate Tuesday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Apalachee Strong T-shirts
Elite Imprint Group announced that 100% of the proceeds from every "Apalachee Strong" shirt will go directly to the school.
"By purchasing a shirt, you're not only showing your Wildcat spirit, but you're also directly contributing to helping and keeping our community STRONG," the website reads.
