The community of Winder, Georgia, is grieving the tragic loss of four lives in a mass shooting at Apalachee High School on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. Among the victims were two teachers, Richard Aspinwall and Cristina Irimie, along with two 14-year-old students, Mason Schermerhorn and Christian Angulo. The shooting, which also left several others injured, has left the tight-knit community devastated and searching for answers.
Cristina Irimie: A Beloved Teacher
Cristina Irimie, 53, was a dedicated math teacher who was passionate about her students and took joy in teaching. She was well-known for her infectious laughter and ability to bring humor into her lessons, making math accessible and fun for her students. Irimie had immigrated to the U.S. with her husband, and although they could not have children of their own, she treated her students like her family.
On the day of the shooting, Irimie was celebrating her birthday with her students by baking a cake and bringing pizza to class. Family friend Corneliu Caprar remembers her for her compassion and how deeply she cared for her students. One student shared how Irimie never made anyone feel less than, even when they got answers wrong, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment.
Irimie was also an active member of the local Romanian community, and her faith was central to her life. She was known for her generosity and love for traditional Romanian folk dancing, which she shared with her community.
Richard Aspinwall: A Devoted “Girl Dad”
Richard Aspinwall, 39, was another dedicated math teacher at Apalachee High School who had recently moved to the school from Mountain View High School. Known to his students as “Coach A,” Aspinwall was not only a teacher but also served as the defensive coordinator for the school’s football team. He was beloved for his kind and gentle demeanor, and students recall him pushing them to succeed while maintaining a warm, supportive presence.
Aspinwall was a proud father of two daughters, and his family describes him as a “girl dad” who doted on his girls. His cousin, Katie Adams Seagraves, expressed her heartbreak over his sudden death, noting how much his family and students loved him. Aspinwall’s family released a statement thanking the community for their overwhelming support and remembering him as a hero who died trying to protect his students.
Mason Schermerhorn: A Creative Soul
Mason Schermerhorn, 14, was remembered by friends and family for his loving and creative nature. He had a great sense of humor and loved video games like Roblox and Genshin Impact. Mason’s sister, Alanna, fondly recalls her brother’s warmth and his desire to be just like her, even learning to play the trumpet because she played it. He had a bright future ahead, full of potential, and his absence leaves an immense void in the hearts of his family and friends.
Christian Angulo: A Kindhearted Teenager
Christian Angulo, also 14, was a kind and caring young man who loved soccer and video games. His sister Lisette and his mother, Emma, described him as a sweet and gentle soul who had just started his first year of high school. The night before the shooting, Christian gave his mother and father a tight hug, a memory that Emma holds dear. Christian’s mother lamented the senseless loss of her son, who was full of dreams and aspirations for his future.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of these four individuals has left an indelible mark on the Apalachee High School community. Teachers, students, and families have come together in their grief, but the pain is immense. The school and local authorities are providing support to those affected, but the community faces a long road to healing.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the memories of Irimie, Aspinwall, Mason, and Christian will remain cherished by all who knew them. Their dedication to learning, teaching, and loving others stands as a lasting legacy in the midst of this tragic loss.
