A Facebook post falsely claimed that a photo showed the Georgia school shooting suspect, a 14-year-old named Colt Gray. The photo, showing a hooded figure with a long gun, actually predates the shooting by at least eight years and has been used in active shooter training materials since 2015. The same image can be seen in news clips and training videos from the Indiana State Police. The photo was also included in a training manual from Reflex Protect, a company that sells safety products and training.
USA TODAY contacted the Indiana State Police, Reflex Protect, and users who shared the false claim for comment. An X user who shared the claim acknowledged the photo was unrelated to the Georgia shooting. Lead Stories also debunked the claim.
This incident highlights the importance of fact-checking information before sharing it, especially in the wake of tragic events like school shootings. Misinformation can spread quickly on social media, leading to confusion and fear. It’s crucial to rely on reputable sources and verify claims before believing or sharing them.
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