Oregon probe targets parents of school shooter over unsecured gun
Investigators in Bend, Oregon, are examining whether the parents of 16-year-old school shooter Griffin J. John II could face criminal charges for failing to secure a firearm. The weapon, a pump-action shotgun purchased by the shooter’s mother, Shauntai Nickerson, was given to her son as a birthday gift. Legal experts note that while buying a gun for a child is not inherently illegal, prosecutors may pursue charges if they can prove the parents knew of the teen’s mental health issues and allowed him access to the weapon despite the risk. This follows similar convictions in Michigan and Georgia, where parents were held liable for their children’s school shootings. The investigation remains active, with authorities seizing digital devices and questioning the parents about the shooter’s behavior and access to the firearm.