According to DailyMail.com, Colt's grandfather, Charlie Polhamus, shared troubling details about his grandson's life in the weeks leading up to the tragic event.
Allegations of Abuse and Neglect
Charlie Polhamus, an 81-year-old former world champion pole vaulter, claimed that just two weeks before the shooting, Colt’s father, Colin Gray, had been violent and threatening.
Polhamus described incidents where Colin was "punching holes in doors" and made threats to "f*** him up."
He believes Colin, 54, is to blame for Colt’s actions, labeling him a "narcissist" who engaged in "physical altercations" with the teenager.
A Toxic Environment
According to Polhamus, Colin Gray's toxic behavior has had a devastating impact on Colt.
He criticized Colin for creating a harmful environment, suggesting that the lack of support and guidance led to Colt's violent behavior.
Polhamus asserted that Colin’s actions ruined Colt’s chances for a better life, saying that the teen would have turned out differently if not for his father’s influence.
Marcee Gray’s Troubled Past
Polhamus also pointed fingers at his daughter, Marcee Gray, Colt’s mother, who has her own troubled history.
Public records reveal Marcee has faced legal issues, including drug possession and domestic violence.
She had recently been incarcerated and was banned from contacting Colin without a third party.
Despite this, Polhamus believes Marcee and Colt were victims of Colin’s abusive behavior.
Family Struggles and Arrests
The Grays’ tumultuous family situation has been marked by repeated moves and legal troubles.
Marcee was arrested in November 2023 for drug possession but faced charges only for vehicle fraud.
She was sentenced to five years in prison but served only 46 days before being placed on probation.
Polhamus accused Colin of forcing Marcee into drug-related crimes to support his addiction.
Troubling Incidents
Polhamus described a violent incident where Marcee allegedly tied her 78-year-old mother to a chair and assaulted her, although he insists the charges will be dropped.
He mentioned that Marcee, despite her academic success, had been deeply affected by her marriage to Colin.
The Aftermath and Court Appearances
In court, both Colt and Colin appeared shackled and handcuffed.
Colt, dressed in a green t-shirt and grey sweatpants, admitted his guilt softly, while Colin, in a prison-issued uniform, appeared distressed.
Judge Currie Mingledorff warned Colin that he could face up to 180 years in prison for the multiple charges against him.
A Family in Crisis
This tragic story underscores the devastating impact of familial dysfunction and abuse.
The accounts from Charlie Polhamus reveal a family plagued by violence, neglect, and deep-seated issues, contributing to the heartbreaking events at Apalachee High School.
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