Pontiac, Michigan – The trial of Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of the Oxford High School shooter, Ethan Crumbley, began last Thursday in Oakland County Court. Jennifer and her husband, James Crumbley, are facing separate trials on four counts of involuntary manslaughter. These charges stem from their son’s shooting rampage on November 30, 2021, which resulted in the deaths of four students and injuries to seven others.
Ethan Crumbley, who was 15 at the time, surrendered to authorities after the shooting. He was charged as an adult and ultimately pleaded guilty to 24 crimes, including murder and terrorism. On December 9, 2023, he received a life sentence without parole.
The trial of Jennifer Crumbley marks a significant legal milestone as it is believed to be the first time parents are being held accountable for the actions of their child in a school shooting through charges of involuntary manslaughter. If convicted, they could face up to 15 years in prison.
Prosecutor Karen McDonald argues that Jennifer Crumbley bears responsibility for the shootings, despite not physically carrying them out. She claims that Jennifer was aware of her son’s deteriorating mental state and his access to a handgun, which was gifted by the parents. The prosecution alleges that the Crumbleys failed to adequately secure the firearm in their home.
During the opening statements, Jennifer Crumbley’s attorney, Shannon Smith, criticized the prosecution for attempting to blame the parents for broader societal issues rather than addressing the underlying problems of mass shootings in schools. Smith asserted that Jennifer had limited knowledge about the guns in their household.
The trial also revealed text messages sent by Ethan to his mother expressing feelings of fear due to “demons.” The prosecution argued that Jennifer neglected to respond to these messages. However, the defense noted that there could be valid reasons for her lack of response, such as weak wireless service or a misunderstanding of his intent.
The trial of Jennifer Crumbley is expected to continue for two weeks, with James Crumbley’s trial scheduled to commence in early March. The outcome of these trials will have significant implications for future cases involving parental liability for school shootings.