Local News
Dwayne Johnson spend time with Apalachee High School victims and their parents
Dwayne Johnson, a renowned actor and former professional wrestler, visited Apalachee High School to offer support to the victims of the recent shooting.
Johnson spent time with the students who were injured in the shooting but survived. He was deeply moved by their incredible stories of resilience and their positive spirits despite the trauma they had endured.
The students proudly shared their new bullet wound scars, which they will carry as a testament to their strength.
Johnson also met with the families of the students who tragically lost their lives in the shooting. He expressed his heartfelt condolences and offered words of encouragement to the grieving families. He was inspired by their strength and determination to honor the memory of their loved ones.
Johnson praised the students and adults he met for their remarkable resilience and courage. He emphasized that they are living examples of strength and perseverance.
The visit by Dwayne Johnson provided much-needed support and hope to the Apalachee High School community. His presence served as a reminder of the power of human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Apalachee High School shooting incident occurred on September 4, 2024, in Winder, Georgia.
A 14-year-old student, Colt Gray, opened fire inside the school, tragically killing four people and injuring nine others.
Key details about the incident:
- Date: September 4, 2024
- Location: Apalachee High School, Winder, Georgia
- Perpetrator: Colt Gray, a 14-year-old student
- Victims: Two students (Mason Schermerhorn, 14, and Christian Angulo, 14) and two teachers (Richard Aspinwall, 39, and Cristina Irimie, 53) were killed. Nine others were injured.
- Weapon: An AR-style rifle
- Timeline: Gray entered the school and blended in with other students. He later asked to leave the classroom and went to the bathroom, where he took out his rifle and began shooting.
- Arrest: Gray was arrested at the scene without incident.
The shooting has deeply impacted the Apalachee High School community, and there has been an outpouring of support for the victims and their families.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.