Parents of Oxford High School Shooter May Face Trial for Involuntary Manslaughter Charges
The parents of Ethan Crumbley, who, at the age of 15, tragically shot and killed four of his schoolmates in November 2021, may soon face trial for involuntary manslaughter charges brought against them.
Michigan Supreme Court Denies Appeal
On Tuesday, the Michigan Supreme Court denied an appeal made by James and Jennifer Crumbley. They had challenged a lower court’s decision that allowed them to stand trial. The Supreme Court stated that they saw no compelling reason to review the case further.
Involuntary Manslaughter Charges
James and Jennifer Crumbley are each facing four counts of involuntary manslaughter. Evidence presented so far includes text messages suggesting they ignored their son’s cries for help in the year leading up to the shooting. Jennifer had even mentioned on Facebook that they bought a gun as a Christmas gift for their son.
The Day of the Tragedy
On the day of the shooting, both parents met with Ethan’s school counselor after he was found with disturbing drawings in class. Prosecutors claim that the parents adamantly refused to take him home that morning. Tragically, a few hours later, Ethan used the gun, apparently given to him by his parents, to fatally shoot four students and injure seven others.
Ethan’s Fate
Ethan Crumbley could be sentenced to life in prison without parole, according to a recent ruling by a judge.
Court’s Reasoning for Trial
The Michigan Court of Appeals explained its decision to allow a trial for James and Jennifer Crumbley in a March filing. The court noted that despite being aware of the circumstances, the parents did not take action when given the opportunity to help their son or inform school officials about his mental health issues or access to a firearm.
Parents’ Defense
Attorneys for the Crumbley parents argue that they could not have predicted their son’s violent intentions before the tragic event occurred.
Unprecedented Trial
If James and Jennifer Crumbley do face trial, it would mark the first of its kind. Following the shooting, they left their hometown, prompting authorities to issue an alert for their arrest. They later turned themselves in, claiming they fled for their safety.
In this challenging and heartbreaking case, the legal system continues to grapple with the difficult questions surrounding the role of parents in such tragic events.