Are parents responsible when their child carries out a mass shooting?

The tragic case of the Oxford High School shooting in 2021 has sparked a debate about who should be held responsible when a child commits a mass shooting. Four high school students, including 14-year-old Hana, lost their lives in the shooting carried out by Ethan Crumbley, a 15-year-old student. Ethan's parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley, now face the first-ever manslaughter charges for their involvement in a mass school shooting. Steve and Ai St Juliana, Hana's parents, have been coping with the loss of their daughter by wearing matching sweatshirts with a flower emblem, symbolizing Hana's name and representing their family. Hana was described as a vibrant and beloved member of the family. After over two years, Ethan Crumbley was sentenced to life in prison without parole. However, the case has raised questions about the accountability of others involved in the shooting. Ethan's parents had gifted him the weapon and attempted to flee after being charged with involuntary manslaughter. Criticism has also been directed towards Oxford High School for potential failures in preventing the tragedy. People who knew Ethan before the shooting, like Kayla LeMieux, had noticed concerning behaviors and reported them to Child Protective Services. The responsibility of Ethan's parents in the shooting presents a challenge in court due to US laws that hold individuals accountable for their own actions. Prosecutors will have to prove that the parents could have foreseen their son's actions. However, cases like this are increasing the trend of holding third parties accountable for homicides. While the Crumbleys face legal consequences, the St Julianas desire justice and accountability from the school district as well. The district has been accused of multiple failures, as highlighted in an independent investigation, which found negligence in handling previous warning signs and discouraging staff from cooperating with investigators. Amidst their grief, the St Julianas are working to ensure that their daughter and the other victims are not forgotten. They are raising funds for a memorial garden with cherry trees and personal mementos to serve as a reminder to the community.