A tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia resulted in the death of beloved football coach Ricky Aspinwall along with three others. Aspinwall, a husband and father of two, was remembered as a respected coach who instilled old-school values in the children he coached. He was described as a hard worker who loved his family and his players, making his loss heartbreaking for all those who knew him. The shooting also claimed the lives of math teacher Christina Irimie and students Mason Shermerhorn and Christian Angulo, both 14, with nine others injured.
The suspect, a 14-year-old student at the high school, will be charged with murder and prosecuted as an adult according to Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith. Aspinwall was one of the first hires of head football coach Mike Hancock when he took over the Apalachee football program, having previously coached at Mountain View High School. The Mountain View football program paid tribute to Aspinwall on social media, describing him as a beloved member of the football team and math department, emphasizing his leadership qualities and dedication to his family.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Aspinwall’s family in the wake of his tragic death. The fundraiser highlighted Aspinwall’s heroism in protecting his students during the shooting, emphasizing his selflessness and commitment to the well-being of those under his care. Local, state, and federal law enforcement continue to investigate the shooting, seeking answers and justice for the victims and their families. The close-knit community of Apalachee High School has been deeply impacted by the loss of Aspinwall and the other victims, rallying together to support each other during this difficult time.
The loss of Aspinwall has left a void not only in the football program and math department at Apalachee High School but also in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy as a leader of men and a dedicated coach will live on in the memories of those he touched, inspiring others to carry on his values and commitment to excellence. As the community mourns the senseless tragedy that took the lives of four innocent individuals, the outpouring of support and love for Aspinwall and his family serves as a testament to the impact he had on those around him. May his memory be a blessing and a reminder of the importance of kindness, compassion, and love in the face of tragedy.
