Oxford, Michigan – The father of a 15-year-old Michigan high school gunman who killed four students has been found guilty of manslaughter. James Crumbley, 47, was convicted after it was revealed during the trial that he neglected his son Ethan’s mental health needs, purchasing the handgun used in the tragic November 2021 attack.
Along with his wife, also convicted on the same charges, the couple now faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. This case marks a significant moment as it is believed to be the first instance where the parents of a mass shooter have been held criminally responsible. The sentencing for the couple is scheduled for April 9.
During the trial, it was disclosed that their son fatally shot fellow students Tate Myre, 16; Hana St Juliana, 14; Madisyn Baldwin, 17, and Justin Shilling, 17, with a semi-automatic handgun at Oxford High School, injuring seven others in the process. The teenage shooter is currently serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Speaking out after the verdict, Steve St Juliana, Hana’s father, emphasized that the prosecution of the Crumbleys is just the initial step in addressing gun violence in the United States. He lamented the lack of action in preventing mass shootings that claim the lives of children on a regular basis, highlighting the need for more comprehensive solutions.
Attorney Ven Johnson asserted that the Crumbleys’ actions directly contributed to the tragic outcome, indicating that while the guilty verdict can’t undo the lives lost, it represents progress in holding individuals accountable under the law. Prosecutors described Crumbley’s inaction regarding his son’s possession of the firearm as negligent and argued that more should have been done to address the teenager’s deteriorating mental health.
Throughout the trial, it was revealed that the parents had disregarded warning signs and failed to secure the weapon properly, leading to the tragic events at the high school. As the legal proceedings unfolded, it became apparent that preventing the shooting was within reach had adequate measures been taken by the Crumbleys.
The guilty verdict in this landmark trial serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible gun ownership and the crucial role parents play in preventing such tragedies. Moving forward, advocates stress the need for increased awareness and action to ensure the safety of students and communities across the country.