A beloved math teacher, 53-year-old Christina Irimie, a woman of Romanian descent, was killed on September 4, 2024, during a school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. Known for her dedication to her students, she was one of four victims who lost their lives that day. Reports from the scene indicated that Irimie died while heroically protecting a student from the gunman. The tragic event also resulted in the death of another teacher and two students, with nine other individuals sustaining injuries.
Irimie was remembered by her community as a passionate educator who cherished her students, often referring to them as her own children. Beyond her role in the classroom, she was a vibrant member of the Romanian-American community, actively involved in her church and passionate about sharing her cultural heritage as a traditional dance instructor. The day before the shooting, she had brought a cake to school to celebrate her birthday with her students, a testament to her caring nature.
The shooter was identified as 14-year-old Colt Gray, a student at the high school. He was arrested at the scene and faces multiple charges, including four counts of murder. The case has drawn national attention not only for the senseless violence but also for the legal accountability of the shooter's father.
In March 2026, Colin Gray, the father of the accused shooter, was convicted of second-degree murder for the deaths of the two students and involuntary manslaughter for the deaths of Christina Irimie and the other teacher. Prosecutors argued that Colin Gray was criminally negligent in providing his son with the assault-style rifle used in the attack, despite being aware of his son's documented mental health struggles and previous threats of violence. His conviction also included multiple counts of reckless conduct and cruelty to children. Colt Gray has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and is awaiting trial.
