High School Junior Recounts Terrifying Moments Before Deadly Shooting

• Colt Gray, a suspected gunman, caused panic at Apalachee High School.

• Students sought refuge as gunshots rang out in the classroom.

• Lyela Sayarath provided a harrowing account of the events.

People react outside the Civic Center following a deadly school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, May 24, 2022. An 18-year-old gunman fatally shot 19 children and two teacher

AP

On Wednesday morning, a tragic incident unfolded at Apalachee High School involving a suspected gunman identified as Colt Gray. Junior student Lyela Sayarath provided a harrowing account of the events that transpired in her Algebra 1 class.

According to Lyela, Colt Gray left the classroom briefly during the class session, prompting speculation among students. Upon his return, a chilling scene unfolded as Colt attempted to re-enter the locked classroom, causing panic among the students.

As the situation escalated, gunshots rang out, leading to a chaotic scene where students sought refuge behind desks and barricaded themselves for safety. Lyela described the sound of gunfire as relentless, with students huddling together in fear.

Tragically, Lyela's friend was in the adjacent classroom where the shooting occurred, witnessing the horrifying events firsthand. The aftermath left her friend visibly shaken, having witnessed someone being shot and sustaining injuries.

Lyela characterized Colt Gray as a quiet and reserved individual, offering minimal interaction during group projects. The sudden and violent nature of the incident has left the school community in shock and mourning.

The swift response of teachers and students in the face of danger highlights the bravery and resilience displayed during a moment of crisis. The impact of such a traumatic event reverberates throughout the school and the wider community, underscoring the need for vigilance and support in the aftermath of such tragedies.