In a dramatic courtroom scene in Pontiac, Michigan, Jennifer Crumbly, the mother of Ethan Crumbly, returned to the witness stand to continue her testimony. Facing four counts of involuntary manslaughter, Jennifer's testimony shed light on the events surrounding the tragic shooting at Oxford High School.
During her testimony, Jennifer denied being close friends with Amanda, the teacher who previously testified. She clarified that their relationship was strictly professional due to Amanda's role as her husband's administrative assistant. The defense then delved into the day of the shooting.
Jennifer confirmed that she had heard about an active shooter at the school and immediately drove to Oxford. She joined a caravan of law enforcement officers, utilizing the fastest route to the school. The defense presented evidence of a text message Jennifer sent to her son, reassuring him that he could talk to them. She explained that she wanted to let Ethan know that they were there for him and loved him.
Further in the text thread, Jennifer told Ethan, 'Don't do it.' When questioned about this message, Jennifer explained that upon learning about the shooting, she initially believed that Ethan may have retrieved the gun and was in a nearby field, not realizing he was at the school. Her concern was that he might harm himself, as she believed this was the pattern with school shooters.
Jennifer clarified that she did not initially think her son had shot or injured anyone. It wasn't until receiving updates that she realized the severity of the situation. Believing that Ethan was planning to take his own life, she desperately reached out to him, pleading with him not to do it.
The testimony then shifted to the moments leading up to Jennifer and her husband, James, arriving at the substation. James informed Jennifer that the substation had called and requested their presence as their son was in custody. Jennifer picked up James and together they made their way to the substation, unsure of Ethan's condition.
The court was filled with tense emotions as Jennifer recounted the overwhelming uncertainty she faced during this time. Her main concern was whether her son was alive, and the couple rushed to the substation driven by a desperate need for answers.
As the trial continues, Jennifer Crumbly's testimony has offered a glimpse into the harrowing moments when she first learned of the shooting and her subsequent fears for her son's safety. The courtroom remains gripped by these powerful moments as the community seeks justice and answers amidst the devastating tragedy at Oxford High School.
