Evergreen High School Shooting Investigation Complete

Parents of Shooter Not Facing Charges

Summary

The investigation into the shooting at Evergreen High School has concluded, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to transparency regarding its findings. Investigators were unable to speak with the shooter’s parents, which complicated efforts to determine how the shooter gained access to the firearm and to confirm its ownership history. This was one of the primary challenges encountered during the investigation.

Investigation Findings

New information emerged on January 23, 2026, when JCSO’s lead investigator received notification from the parents’ attorney acknowledging that the firearm was owned by a maternal grandparent. The handgun was described as a family heirloom that was rarely seen or used and stored out of sight near the back of a large, locked gun safe. According to the letter, the shooter did not have access to the safe, except for brief moments when it was opened by his father.

Review of Potential Charges

Throughout the investigation, investigators provided ongoing updates to the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office as all potential charges related to the parents of the shooter were considered. The investigation ultimately focused on C.R.S. 18-12-114, Secure Firearm Storage Required, and C.R.S. 18-12-108.7 Providing a Firearm to a Juvenile. Ultimately, investigators determined there was insufficient evidence to establish probable cause or meet the legal elements required to present the case to the District Attorney for charges.

This case will be closed, pending the emergence of new evidence that would warrant the filing of charges.

Community Impact

The JCSO acknowledges that this was not the outcome many in our community hoped for. In the wake of this tragic event, we remained fully committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation, guided by the facts and the law. While not every investigation results in additional charges, our focus has always been on pursuing the truth and accountability wherever it could be legally established. We recognize the deep pain this tragedy continues to cause, and we share the community’s sorrow. The courage and character shown by the students and staff at Evergreen High School on September 10 was remarkable—and the heroism and commitment to protecting lives demonstrated by front-range first responders was extraordinary.

Support and Resources

Note: JCSO’s Victim Services Unit remains available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide emotional support and information regarding case updates, available resources, and assistance with ongoing needs. Advocates are available to listen, help navigate services, and support individuals and families in whatever way it is most helpful to them.

The Evergreen Resiliency Center is now open and available to support the community as healing continues. The center is a welcoming space for students, faculty, family members and those most critically impacted—to gather, connect, and receive support. It is a place where individuals can feel safe, and heard - a place where peace, comfort, and healing can begin at each person’s own pace.

Evergreen Resiliency Center

Address: 5120 CO Rd 73, Evergreen

Hours: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Phone: 720-362-2925
Email: admin.erc@victimoutreach.org

Additional resources are available online at: https://massviolence.help/evergreen-co