Authorities have released audio recordings of the sheriff questioning the alleged 14-year-old shooter prior to the tragic mass shooting at a high school in Georgia. The shooter, who killed 4 people and injured 9 others, had been previously investigated for allegedly threatening a school shooting. The suspect's father admitted to purchasing the gun used in the shooting as a holiday gift for his son.
The fast response from law enforcement, aided by a new security system implemented just a week before the incident, led to the suspect's swift apprehension. The system, called Syntegix, utilizes ID badges with panic buttons for emergency situations, allowing teachers and staff to alert authorities and lock down the school.
The 14-year-old suspect will be charged with murder and tried as an adult. Documents found in his bedroom referenced past school shootings, including the 2018 Parkland massacre. The suspect had a previous encounter with law enforcement after threats were made on a chat platform, but the case was cleared due to lack of evidence.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how the suspect brought the AR-15 rifle into the school, especially considering his recent enrollment. The suspect's father has been arrested in connection with the shooting, facing charges of involuntary manslaughter, second-degree murder, and cruelty to children.
The community is mourning the loss of four lives, including two teachers and two students, with tributes being laid at the high school. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is expected to provide further details on the case in a press conference.
