Psychologist Testifies Colt Gray Did Not Have Schizophrenia, Cites Depression and Parental Drug Use

July 28, 2026 - 10:44

In a key development in the ongoing legal proceedings, forensic psychologist Kevin Richards testified that the defendant, Colt Gray, does not meet the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia. Richards, who evaluated Gray as part of the court-ordered mental health assessment, instead described a young man grappling with severe depression and persistent paranoia.

Richards stated that Gray's symptoms, while serious, are more consistent with major depressive disorder and paranoid ideation rather than a psychotic disorder like schizophrenia. The psychologist emphasized that Gray's paranoia appeared to be rooted in his troubled home environment and personal history, not in a break from reality.

The testimony also shed light on Gray's upbringing. Richards revealed that both of Gray's parents used drugs during his childhood, which he said likely contributed to the instability and emotional neglect the defendant experienced. According to Richards, this environment fostered feelings of isolation and distrust, which later manifested as paranoia and depressive episodes.

The psychologist's findings contradict earlier speculation that Gray might have been suffering from schizophrenia, a condition characterized by hallucinations and disorganized thinking. Richards explained that Gray's cognitive testing and interviews showed no evidence of such symptoms. Instead, he described a pattern of withdrawal, low mood, and irrational fears about being harmed by others.

The testimony is expected to play a significant role in the defense's argument that Gray's mental state should be considered a mitigating factor. The prosecution has not yet cross-examined Richards, and the trial is expected to continue with additional expert witnesses.