‘Behind the scenes’ for 25 years, Columbine father Michael Shoels speaks out: 'It's time'

In an 1800s-era parlor room on Austin Peay State University’s campus, Michael Shoels looked around, commenting on how long it has been since he last sat in front of a camera.

[@mattg1611]

The way they killed Isaiah was absolutely terrible, Dylan called Eric over telling him there was a N word over here, Isaiah slowly backed up and the last thing he said was “I wanna see my mom”. Isaiah was the first one in his family to ever graduate highschool, he was so excited he marked everyday on his calendar until the coming day, he was buried with his gown on and his diploma. Rip Isaiah we will never forget you or any of the innocent lives that where taken that day🙏🏻

[@ovidiomartinez7682]

Is so sad 😢

[@robbycole7047]

Pay the reparations & stop stalling

[@mattg1611]

@@robbycole7047 tf is wrong with u?

[@robbycole7047]

@@mattg1611 quit stalling with that mayo babble and fake condolences

[@UrsAndUrsOnly]

@@robbycole7047 ur fucked in the head

[@user-ye5ku2ws6s]

His black kids went through all of that raycist bullying and not ONCE did they think about sh@@ting up that School. Those two brats had no excuse for what they did.

[@AmberColeman-gq1wn]

We never do. We harm each other maybe..and I hate that. We need each other so badly.

[@KeithCurtis-hz6bm]

Never is crazy if you gonna be real about something make sure your not hiding fake cards

[@KeithCurtis-hz6bm]

That was to amber

[@bahplusten2934]

Powerful!!!

[@sophritoh]

What’s with the weird spelling

[@djoldsoulkid3407]

They treated Mr. Michael that way because he was black can’t nobody tell me differently not only was Isaiah’s death was about race but how the media treated his family was about race

[@user-ye5ku2ws6s]

The crazy thing is the news downplayed his story.

[@djoldsoulkid3407]

@@user-ye5ku2ws6s these people always downplay OUR life and experience

[@toombs6287]

This comment is a fact💯💯💯

[@toombs6287]

@@djoldsoulkid3407💯💯💯

[@AmberColeman-gq1wn]

Anything related to black people , they downplay. Today their buzzwords are : reverse racism, race card, they call perpetual victims… Meanwhile Jews from the holocaust deserved “reparations “…when the effects of Jim Crow are literally still felt today.

[@dakritic]

The fact that people essentially shamed their family for looking for accountability is nauseating.

[@africanqueen1655]

And unfortunately NORMAL for the EVIL. 🙏🏿🙌🏾

[@Dark-fu2ww]

@@africanqueen1655Yup. They don’t know that God is always watching though

[@africanqueen1655]

@@Dark-fu2wwIndeed & he is acting look up their drastically declining birthrates. 🙏🏿🙌🏾

[@ericadial8801]

Racism period

[@mrbrown6896]

I didn't realize there was a statute of limitations on accountability. The parents of Columbine could and still should be held to account in my opinion.

[@IH8COMERCIALRNB]

He is right, they referred to the child as slurs before they killed him, obviously they were killing mostly white children but they did pick him because he was black.. and the family are entitled to feel how they want about it.

[@Finnn.07]

They didn't pick him cause he black the shot him cause he was there

[@thecommentsection4913]

@@Finnn.07 No, they literally did pick him out because he was Black. It's exactly what the witnesses said. It's amazing how people like you still try to play mind games as if we're delusional.

[@missym877]

@@Finnn.07gtfoh. You’ve done nothing but stalked these comments to just be a racist enabler. You call someone a racial slur before executing them, it’s a hate crime and YOU KNOW IT. Cuz if a black person shot you while mentioning your race you sure af know you’: cry them white tears, and call it a hate crime. Stop being a hypocrite.

[@MrAbdi-cc1no]

@@Finnn.07 lies

[@itzflowers4me]

@@Finnn.07 Stop gas lighting, it's gross.

[@smithandsuperdeadeyeofthew823]

He would have been 43 today

[@MyB1AncestorsWantMe2SPELLitOut]

❤ 🙏🏾 ❤

[@becky5937]

Thought he was 14. 25 years ago is 39

[@katrinamack8962]

@@becky5937no i’m pretty sure he was a senior

[@pumaden7318]

@@becky5937he was 18.

[@TheCeraization]

@@becky5937he was born in 1980

[@02WIFE]

It was a hate crime

[@Finnn.07]

So u forget about the other 12 students and teacher who where white that died that day and being toremnat for their religion for there disablity for there faith

[@captainplanet2407]

​@@Finnn.07you been crying a lot in these comments. It was a hate crime because he was killed for his skin color the others could be labeled various other things but the fact remains Dylan and Eric's brains were all over them books and you mad about it

[@02WIFE]

@@Finnn.07 Isaiah was targeted because he was black.

[@Kwame0007]

@@Finnn.07that was” white on white “crime as y’all would say if it was all blacks 😴😴

[@TLR1988]

​@@Finnn.07here you go again with the bill piss. If you were in a bank with 24 black people and a shooter asked "Where's the cracker, let's get him", they'd be racist just like you, Cire, and Nalyd. Stop defending those racist punks. Of course most of the victims were white when 93% of the school was white. He was the only black in the room young lady.

[@user-te8nu2lm8j]

He's a real one. I bet his son was too. Didn't deserve to lose his son. He's a very strong person.

[@CHELSEABuckhannon]

AMEN ❤❤❤❤

[@ghostmantagshome-er6pb]

"user"= MEANS BOT

[@highwayman22790]

​@@ghostmantagshome-er6pb yep

[@justju0rd]

Glad to know Mr. Shoels is doing okay. Wish his family didn’t get scrutinize over calling out what it was, his son’s murder was definitely a hate crime regardless

[@UnfilteredAmerica]

People scrutinized him? I believe it too! There are people here in the comments clawing and trying to say Isaiah’s death wasn’t about race.

[@autismworldtravel]

He doesn’t look ok. Perhaps he’s suffered a stroke or other health issues. It seems like he has a drinking problem here. 😢

[@Aundrey-mk1jq]

​@@autismworldtravel❤

[@telleblu4382]

​@@autismworldtravelYou must be talking about the white male news reporter who appeared to have dozed off during the story. The father spoke very coherently, the pain from losing his child still lingers in his voice. You have turned a deaf ear, the same way you have turned a blind eye to his pain. Shame on you.

[@autismworldtravel]

@@telleblu4382 i did not say he was incoherent nor was my observation an attempt to shame him. He’s a grown adult who has endured a tremendous tragedy. I can’t fathom his pain. I also recognize that I could be totally off base here, I’m not trying to spread misinformation. I made that clear. But he doesn’t seem fine, and point was to highlight how these crimes destroy families. This man seems so broken to me, and undoubtedly that’s at least partly due to the trauma he’s been through. It looked like he was holding a bottle of liquor in another video I saw of him. Again, this is not to shame him. I totally understand it and he’s a grown man, I’d never shame him for drinking. I only wish him peace and healing. Shame on you for being so immature and saying things I never said. I never disagreed with this man on anything he’s stated nor said his feelings were invalid. So I’m not sure why you felt the need to tag me.

[@keelhe893]

I remember his story and was disgusted how they tried to belittle how evil, racist, and nasty those boys were. Isaiah was worthy to have a long life like all the other children who loss their lives. It’s crazy that he was shot for being one of the few black kids in the schools

[@cindylouwho9060]

That’s why my mom avoided all white schools, when I was a kid. She never trusted white schools nor white kids, because they lack proper training in behavior.

[@PeterPantheFearless]

@@cindylouwho9060 Which is sad bc not all white kids and white schools are like that. But, it's the ones who are like that who give the rest a bad name.

[@Naturefan354]

I don't believe he was shot for being black tho... in fact there are different accounts of what the shooters said to him and didn't say ?

[@louniece1650]

​@@Naturefan354So you're calling everyone a liar. You're a peach.

[@Naturefan354]

@louniece1650 Hey genius didn't you read what I wrote? I said there is different accounts from the people who were actually there. 1 person said he was called an n*gger and another person there said they didn't say anything about his race?. I wasn't there and don't know what's true and I know nobody is lying. Everyone there truthfully gave their account but stories tend to conflict in high stress situations.

[@greenbutterfly9455]

Some of the surviving students in the library confirmed that Dylan and Eric were making racial slurs toward Isaiah right before shooting him in the face, as well as other hateful things they were saying to anyone that they approached in the library. It's kind of a no brainer that those dudes were racist, especially since they idolized Hitler and chose Hitler's birthday to carry out their despicable act. And all the people that still defend Eric and Dylan and feel that them being bullied is what drove them over the edge and that's what made them do what they did..... My problem with that is: Not one of those students they terrorized and senselessly murdered, not one of them were any of the ones who bullied them--so that doesn't fly with me. My deepest condolences to the victims families that have to relive that horrible nightmare every April 20th. 😢

[@santaclaus3077]

He was never shot in the face.

[@frostyshock]

​@@santaclaus3077he was still killed. Don't try to sugar coat it

[@santaclaus3077]

@@frostyshock not sugar coating anything but he was never shot in the face.

[@my98-ot7jj]

​@@santaclaus3077 ok Nazi

[@Pizzashop66]

@@santaclaus3077 he was still killed case closed

[@savagesunflower1865]

Isaiah’s murder was a hate crime! Period!

[@scottnordlund8881]

I think everyone of the murderers was a hate crime.

[@tiffanylee3866]

​@@scottnordlund8881I totally agree with you

[@youtubeillegallydeletesacc1525]

​@@scottnordlund8881 And you would be wrong.

[@youtubeillegallydeletesacc1525]

​@@tiffanylee3866 Then you'd be agreeing with someone who is wrong. But, who cares what you people think. It's what WE KNOW.

[@lemondrop7305]

@@scottnordlund8881 there's a legal definition for it. don't be so dense.

[@acethefloridianforever]

25 years later things haven't changed in America. I can't believe I was turning two in the year this happened.

[@melistasy]

They've only gotten worse!

[@72RiviRyda]

And they never will.

[@LibertySerenity]

Sadly, this is the truth!

[@theone2n3]

And it wont until we find God again

[@Eclipse-lw4vf]

thats just inaccurate and delusional

[@worldtraveler3044]

He’s right, zero accountability for columbine. If the parents were charged this would have changed history for all the children

[@tcdecatur2077]

And one of the moms of the murderers wrote a book and was lauded as being SO brave for sharing her story. 😒

[@SK-rs1hu]

​​@@tcdecatur2077i remember that God awful Ted talk she did. What a piece of work

[@brennathecatlover4360]

@@tcdecatur2077to be fair it would be easy to miss the signs especially if you’re not aware of it

[@poob1082]

​@@brennathecatlover4360without a doubt you have to be a deaf, blind, mute not to notice

[@tcdecatur2077]

@@brennathecatlover4360 nah. As a parent, strong parenting requires awareness and engagement.

[@Kari2025]

It breaks my heart that the family didn’t feel safe enough to stay in Colorado, because that’s where their baby boy is buried. I can’t imagine having to move thousands of miles away from your child who can’t ever travel to you.

[@Nikkistrict]

My thoughts exactly

[@TeeTee-2016]

I was hoping he say that they moved his remains near them.🪽Fly High Young Man

[@thecommentsection4913]

When I was 17, I wanted to transfer to a different school for a program but my parents told me I couldn't. The school I wanted to go to was predominantly white and they didn't want me to deal with the emotional trauma of racism. After going to college and meeting so many Black kids that experienced racial trauma from being at predominantly white schools, I'm really happy my parents protected me from that. My heart goes out to this dad.

[@coreysanders6197]

To be honest, what did you really expect? Hot apple pie and a cold glass of milk

[@UnfilteredAmerica]

Be glad you didn’t. Being one of the few black kids at a white school was terrible…

[@Thaddeus-ml8if]

School I went to the racist and bullies were mostly blacks. 🤷🏽

[@thecommentsection4913]

@@coreysanders6197 Fortunately, my parents expected trash mentalities like yours and made a wise choice.

[@thecommentsection4913]

@@UnfilteredAmerica I"m definitely glad I didn't. I had really great high school experience. The stories I've heard from Black people that did definitely let me know I didn't miss anything

[@Goblue373]

The killers parents should have been held accountable!!! 💯!

[@sarahs8110]

How can they be accountable? Especially if they did everything to raise them properly. Kids can fool their parents easily

[@mele9131]

If they are using the n-word and are drawing swastikas the adults need to intervene.

[@dcgrace320]

The fact so many people still think this is blasphemous. Imagine being held accountable for something another adult did.

[@boomds5602]

@@dcgrace320 they weren’t adults, they were kids

[@Angelisa-hi3fv]

How deep is right they would have believe me.

[@BreezeDaDon]

Their is no race "card". He was a target because he was black, because of his race! PERIOD!

[@RAZOR_RICKY]

Bro they also said they were glad the Roman's crucified the asshole Jesus christ in their journal. They wanted everyone dead bro. They only started shooting because the bombing failed. They wanted their whole school dead bro they didn't only target African americans.

[@Reese1882yw]

Remember the media over the years have tried to paint the shooters as victims of bullying and rap/metal music.

[@bullydakidd2023]

And the father just confirmed that his son told them there was a racist group of kids in the school picking up black kids and throwing them in the trash and locking them in lockers. The abuse towards his son was so bad he wanted to transfer his son, but his son wanted to graduate with his friends. And begged him to stay. Shame 😢

[@brennathecatlover4360]

Weren’t they bullied tho?

[@jasmineartis5754]

brennathecatlover4360 even if they were (which I doubt) they didn’t even kill the people who bullied them! I watched a documentary and they had friends! One girl even said she wanted to date one of the murderers but his aura became so dark she couldn’t.

[@MyB1AncestorsWantMe2SPELLitOut]

​@@jasmineartis5754 That bullied narrative was ALL crap. 💯 full on crap. They were the fckn predators & bullies, THEY walked the halls terrorizing ppl and it's WELL KNOWN to those that worked/ went there. THEY were the ones BEING A PROBLEM & having students complain But NO ONE did a thing. Even when it was KNOWN they weren't anything more than RAC¡ST sKKKum it was swept under the rug. Staff got/ stayed in code and DID NOTHING. . . . . .TYPICAL BS

[@Reese1882yw]

@@brennathecatlover4360 Being bullied is not a reason to commit mass murder if they only targeted the “bullies” maybe that excuse works but they were heard saying “the n word is in there” prior to shooting this kid 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@joemagwood9130]

You can still hear it his voice he still hurting.

[@reginahamilton982]

Time doesn't heal all wounds.. it just helps you cope with the pain.. believe me I know 😢

[@joemagwood9130]

@@reginahamilton982 Well said

[@leohorishny9561]

This man and his family has been unjustly treated and SHAME on white people who act like that towards innocent strangers. 🤬

[@PeterPantheFearless]

Shame on any person who acts like that towards innocent strangers

[@brianbrannanHVACTech]

Racist fuck

[@guscurren7701]

@@PeterPantheFearlessdoesn’t fit the agenda unless it’s against whitey

[@MyName-yl2nc]

​@@PeterPantheFearlessexactly it comes from every single race

[@Finnn.07]

So u forget about the other 12 students and teacher who where white that died that day and being toremnat for their religion for there disablity for there faith

[@kenBIGLION67aus]

Only one group of people are ever asked to forgive.

[@MYFBAMB]

Exactly! Everybody else is always allowed to be angry. Enough with this Christianity, religious BS! It never helped anything!

[@naaimshareef]

As a 44 years old Blakman a student of my spiritual father & my master teacher Dr. Malachi Z. York he taught us Black people we will not forget, we will not forgive. That is the way of nature, that is our Black people's natural way.

[@kenBIGLION67aus]

@@MYFBAMB 30 years later I’m still waiting for a reporter to ask the Goldman and the Brown families if they forgive.

[@quanticemitchell7539]

​@@kenBIGLION67aus find the guilty party first 🤡

[@kimisrael66]

THE MOST HIGH DOESN'T FORGET NOR DOES HE FORGIVE... APTTMH 💯

[@cherylmysliwczyk5716]

If he is anything like his father, he was a sweet soul.

[@randinatkowitz2487]

My heart goes out to Mr Shoals and all the families who lost their children and loved ones that awful day!. May all the victims of Columbine continue to rest in the sweetest peace

[@Milaperadotti]

I was a junior in high school when this happened. Isaiah such a sweet boy I can’t believe it’s been 25 years. I’m 42 years old now and I never would’ve believed that this would become an epidemic! Time for change

[@AntiMasonic93]

Ahhh 42! That is my age. Class of 1999 here.

[@karlae8445]

I didn't even realize it has been 25 years since I graduated high school until I saw it was 25 years since this happened 😭

[@Alexandria87]

I was 12 when this happened and the two victims that still stick with me to this day is Cassie Bernall and Isaiah.

[@geraldine1437]

This was a very sad time- sometimes as parents we have to say no we gotta go! If there were things going on in the school that were racially motivated- my kids would have been out!!!

[@goldenstarr8469]

🙏🙏🙏

[@user-st6nt4ou6f]

This man has spoken to our consciences. He has a powerful message. Im glad i saw this. Thank you, Mr Shoels

[@user-hp2dh2we3k]

Rest in peace Isaiah 😢 🕊️ my condolences to the family of Isaiah

[@Finnn.07]

And what about the other

[@user-hp2dh2we3k]

@@Finnn.07 your right I shouldn't forget the others rest in heavenly paradise to all the victims of the Columbine shooting never Forgotten. .

[@DivineLegacy09]

​@@Finnn.07this particular interview and story wasn't about anyone else. You seem to have an issue with anyone speaking to his memory or giving condolences to his family solely. This was not a piece about every single person just the one!

[@DivineLegacy09]

​@user-hp2dh2we3k you don't have to listen to that nut. If there was a story being done on one person who had cancer and you give them your condolences this fool would come and say what about everyone else who died of cancer!

[@Jaykay033]

@@Finnn.07This video is not about the other victims its about ISAIAH. I have wished all of the other victims peace and heard all of their stories except Isaiah’s. I went through countless documentaries and Isaiah’s parents rarely came out to speak. You need to stop going on different comments trying to set Isaiah to the side because its not going to happen…

[@juswavvy9634]

Mr shoels should be in his early 70s yet still looks the same as he did 25 years ago

[@bodaciousandunapologetic6209]

I agree with Mr. Shoels, the parents should have been held responsible for their children's actions

[@user-ne5ns7sd6x]

You better hold up watch what you say You start holding parents accountable There will be no black mother's free You can't speak upon the baby daddy cuz they don't know who they are😮

[@bodaciousandunapologetic6209]

@@user-ne5ns7sd6x and you can kiss the fattest part of my a$$, and anybody related to you. You have the right one today.

[@isabellavillanueva4639]

Special needs mom got in trouble for her kids actions. Imagine how many more

[@violetblossom50]

@@user-ne5ns7sd6xwhat are you talking about. Were drunk when u wrote this comment?

[@user-ne5ns7sd6x]

@@violetblossom50 Are you drunk trying to read this Self-explanatory

[@Midgar_Blues]

How can anyone say he's playing the race card when his son was targeted for his race, and called a racist slur before being shot dead?

[@AnAdorableWombat1]

This was not confirmed at all. He wasn't called a slur. That is just media propaganda and rumors to cause racial tension

[@302Notary-fingerprintboss]

I used to say Isaiah Shoels name aloud to keep his memory alive. I was so impressed by the story of his life and his overcoming so many challenges yet to be taken so tragically. May God recompense his life.

[@jazminmiller1071]

Exactly I always feel like he’s forgotten

[@lisajackson2329]

This racism is just too much to bare

[@AnAdorableWombat1]

😂😂 then click off the video.

[@user-cv7nj7xt7h]

Why are you asking about forgiveness when this was not an accident. Please quit asking people to forgive murders.

[@DellieB]

Agreed. I hate when they ask that

[@droid4d279]

Christian people have to in order to get right with god which is stupid

[@1racethehumanrace946]

Agreed the parents of the two school shooters are the one's who should be asking the parents of deceased children for forgiveness!🌹🙏🙏

[@andreadunbar4617]

Forgiveness is what is demanded by God for us ALL to give everyone. If we don't forgive others as HE has forgiven us, then no matter what you do in this life, you will be going to hell with the same ones you can't fog8ve cause you are holding hatred and bitterness in your heart and soul and that is not what God is about. Now, I think it is a little insensitive to for interviewers to be constantly asking the victims and their families this. If they volunteer their thoughts on it then fine, but don't badger them on if and when they are gonna forgive. That is a personal journey they must take on their own and they shouldn't feel pressured to do so on command from someone. People have to work through their emotions and thoughts. Prying that everyone forgives as quickly as they can though cause it is for you not for the one who has trespassed against you. And forgiving doesn't mean you have to be friends with nor forget the wrongdoings of the past. You move on and learn from it though.

[@Loveabounds.]

Evil I remember e called him a n word even though Isaiah was also bullied they didn’t have any sympathy for him

[@JamesAvila-xu7ds]

Idk if those dudes had mercy on anybody but regardless they’re in hell now

[@thetruthhurts131]

​@JamesAvila-xu7ds Hell doesn't exist. They are simply in the grave

[@JamesAvila-xu7ds]

@@thetruthhurts131 if you say so

[@Loveabounds.]

@@JamesAvila-xu7ds they didn’t

[@thetruthhurts131]

@@JamesAvila-xu7ds You are entitled to your incorrect opinion

[@geraldpittman7990]

As a 16 year old in April of 1999, I remember this vividly. To sit down and watch other high schoolers run for their lives at school after returning home from school myself was one of the most surreal experiences I can ever recall. My deepest and sincerest condolences to Mr. Shoels and to the families of the other fallen victims. May all of those young people rest in eternal peace

[@Alexandria87]

I was 12 when this happened and I vividly remember the one kid escaping out of a window and his blood streaking down the window when he got out. Very disturbing.

[@scandalfan1667]

Same for me. I was 16 years old getting home from school. Regular day. My mom had the TV on and was watching as the kids of Columbine were being led out of school, terrified looks on their faces. Very surreal.

[@earlyharris72]

They needed to be hold accountable for what they have done GOD BLESS His family

[@Tre3x777]

You a real one dad. Sorry for your lost and keep being strong. He’s right with you.

[@caitlinkilkenny9433]

As too as all of the other kids killed that day with their families

[@Tre3x777]

@@caitlinkilkenny9433 Amen.

[@AdorePei]

If the shooters were black, they would’ve blamed the parents immediately. How could you not know your high school aged children are planning an event so massive in your home?!

[@msaverielle]

I’m glad he’s speaking out.❤

[@Lbms67]

Two cowards were allowed to walk the earth. The parents are legally responsible. Courts may protect those from blame. And it’s wrong.

[@Reese1882yw]

Yep they blamed it on everything but themselves

[@Thaddeus-ml8if]

And the Karen mother wrote a book to make money and did interviews. She has the nerve to show her face on camera and acting like the victim. 0 shame.

[@vickyslays1450]

@@Reese1882ywthe mother even had the audacity to write a book & participate in a ted talk😂

[@YolandaSmith-zs1rl]

This is a cautionary tale of not staying somewhere where your not wanted because your safety is in jeopardy. I know he has to live with that everyday but now we found out how low and lengths they will go to to carry out evil. My condolences

[@bellamijaymes2153]

Thank you. Years ago one of his daughters said she never wanted to go to Columbine & people were terrible to their family before Columbine

[@mrsc1742]

People are racist ALL over America. Even if they experienced racism, no one would have thought kids would come to their school & shoot other students in the face. It's 100% NOT the family's fault this happened b/c they didn't move. ALL blame must fall on the shooters & their parents!!

[@is34preteristforce]

Craig Scott, Rachel Scott’s younger brother, was with Isaiah when it happened. Craig went on the Today show with Mr. Shoels two days later.

[@arielmcnealy6443]

That interview always makes me cry. Especially seeing Mr. Shoels reaction to what Craig was saying.

[@kindness630]

Dad, you are a hero...We felt every word you said..😢

[@chaniquasmith6258]

I wouldn’t forgive them for killing my son.

[@dailyamine]

I am literally crying like a baby. Poor Isaiah. RIP!

[@AntiMasonic93]

I was a senior in high school in 1999 when the Columbine Massacre happened. Class of 1999 here. Some of these survivors are my age. I watched those students on live television run out of the school with their hands on their heads. Of course, we had a big box television back then. The 90s were different.

[@sisterel5239]

Sorry this happened during your Senior Year. Glad you survived. 🙏

[@candicane1]

Class of 1999 here. I remember watching this on the news after school and we were sure this was an anomaly. We were so wrong. It became an epidemic.

[@Tbrew-zd6xb]

@anti are you a wyþe boy?

[@AntiMasonic93]

@@candicane1 Yeah, I thought Columbine was an isolated event. I didn't think there would have been so many copycats post-Columbine. Also, when I was a senior in 1999, I had a pager. I remember that thing going off twice as I watched live coverage on the school shootings. The ringtone on those pagers were annoying.

[@zpushy633sora8]

This is why Old Fashioned CRTs are better than Flatscreen TVs and all of those Roku TVs, Smart TVs, and Fire TVs Nowadays. I wish I still had a Big Box TV because those will always be better.

[@kimberleegarcia2363]

What is closure? I am still waiting for justice in the death of my daughter's dad. It's been over 30 years and South Carolina is so racist and too slow to get trials in to the Market court system. We have traveling judges when we need judicial systems set in place just like Orlando, Florida and other large cities, town and counties. It takes way too long to go to trial and put criminals in jail. By the time a case gets to court witnesses, victims and the suspect is dead or has moved to another state or has committed other crimes. We need to have judges in all communities at all times not every 4 months or longer. These criminals need to go back to trial faster then they are doing things here. The police investigating murder, sexual assault crimes are not doing their jobs they don't care that our lives are ruined or the hurt and pain that the lack of injustice is causing us not to trust the judicial system. That sometimes vengeance is all we have left to get the justice that we deserve.

[@mrsbell7116]

He is better than me! He is right to forgive and never forget! I hate they were not allowed to properly grieve and had to be chased away after such tragedy. We always gotta be the bigger person...

[@PHlophe]

I onno that i am capable of forgiving, we not the same , that ain't me. The Shoats had been grieving in absolute silence all while relieving the horror of multiple school deletions over the decades. I cannot begin to imagine. Loosing a chile is hard as hell , even in the most normal circumstances. Disrupted order of things and sudden emotional void .Lord have mercy on us .

[@lifeaszahara3282]

Rip to everyone that lost there life 😢

[@sneakydeechey7210]

*their

[@cindylouwho9060]

It was hard on everyone because this never should have happened.

[@toombs6287]

This is about Isaiah 🙄

[@sneakydeechey7210]

@@toombs6287 u really mad other people were included?

[@sagba9473]

@@sneakydeechey7210don’t try to downplay it like damn come on yall are hilarious af online😂

[@KeyunnaP]

R.I.H Isiah, I'm glad Mr. Shoels is keeping his sons name alive. 🥺💔🙏🏽

[@caricantillo596]

The irony that the dad moved his family to the suburbs so his kids could grow up in a safe area and then this happens 😣

[@bebe553]

I keep scrolling past this posting but today I decided to read the article. I am so glad that I did. Rest in Peace, Isaiah.

[@kjones8293]

Me too!💔🙏🏽

[@NoOne-wt3sv]

This is a man you give million dollars to ease his grief if you won the mega millions. He lost everything.

[@crazy32people55]

These reporters etc always ask us about forgiving but not others. And I'm sick of it!

[@soniaadams1828]

I extend my condolences and continued peace to Mr. Michael Shoels, his family, and the families of the other victims.

[@user-cv7nj7xt7h]

Don't ask people to forgive that is so inappropriate.

[@tituswillow]

I graduated in 1998. I couldn’t believe this had happened and I realized then that I was the last graduating class to feel safe in school. Now as a parent myself, my children have never known what’s it like to not worry about this happening… unbelievable that this has gone this far and that in 25 years, instead of this happening less it has grown into its own monster

[@SharpTac]

I agree with the father. These parents need to face charges for neglect of their children & giving them access to firearms.

[@akingwithwords2144]

You know it’s not gonna end well when you hear a black man say, “I had faith in the system…” 🤦🏽‍♂️ RIP to everyone who lost someone in that tragedy…

[@k.b2457]

He is absolutely right. When you all start LISTENING and taking the experiences and thoughts of black people seriously, the world can change for the better.

[@Siclone23]

Still no black hate crime bill!

[@AnAdorableWombat1]

There is no white one either. Y'all aren't special. White kids lost their lives as well

[@AaronLesterMedia]

Wow can't believe it's been 25 years. RIP to all.

[@ivop5744]

I am so sorry for the loss of Isaiah and all the kids lost to school violence. Mr. Michaels, my heart goes out to you. Your voice, passion, and impact reminds me of the conversations my dad, uncles and grandparents would have at the kitchen table on Saturdays. We need to take care of our village. Yes we do indeed! Blessings to you and your family! Keep going!❤

[@majorphenom1]

Thanks for sharing 🙏🏾 Prayers out for those trying to recover from the passing of their loved ones 🕊️

[@harambetidepod1451]

Thank you for sharing this.

[@michaelstrahan2.0]

God bless you and your lovely family, Mr. Shoels. I think about you often and wonder how you're doing, so it's good to see your face and hear your voice again.

[@sehera0]

Dylan kleabold’s mum wrote a book and goes on book tours and gives TED talks like a celebrated hero.

[@nr7645]

She was a victim also. Stop it

[@latyshal.2286]

​@@nr7645How was she a victim?

[@anyaw340]

@@nr7645 She's NOT a victim. She ignored A LOT of her son's criminal anti-social/criminal behavior both in school and out of school. Burglary, vandalism, violent stories, failure to adjust to a knew school, etc. If Columbine happened today, she might be sitting in prison with the Oxford school shooter's parents. She gets the benefit of the doubt because school shootings weren't really a "thing" back then, so it might not have occurred to her that her son might one day shoot up a school specifically, but the fact remains that she ignored so much that pointed to her child being a threat to others in some way, as he'd already victimized others. Also, the above comment is just pointing out how backwards this is. Look at how she's being treated, compared to an ACTUAL victim - a victim whose child was victimized by HER child. It's backwards, period. She's more like "collateral damage" - not a victim.

[@louniece1650]

​@@nr7645YOU stop it.

[@candicane1]

@@nr7645she is NOT a victim! She ignored her son’s weirdo behavior! Her complete oblivion to her son’s hate cost those kids and teachers their lives! You stop it!

[@rara1800]

Allegations of greed? This man lost his child?!

[@bamagrl26]

I still can't believe it has been 25 years. I wish those parents had been prosecuted back then. I believe we wouldn't have had this many shootings.

[@PHlophe]

the Momma of one of the shooters she a whole Narc . They do be doing these things where they actually make a whole tragedy about themselves and the victims are forgotten. the 90s were NOT a good era socially . it resembled tien 1950s but with mobile phones and computors.

[@carnival3429]

@@PHlopheI thought you were talking about Isiah’s mother for a second😅 but yes Sue is an absolute Narcissist don’t even get me started.

[@BigDogHDSPB]

This feels like it happened yesterday. It never leaves you.

[@JBoo]

Im soooo very sorry for your loss hugs prayers and positive vibes to the families who lost their kids

[@sillylovesongs581]

Absolutely disgusting and abhorrent that anyone would harass or bother this man and his family after the tragic and violent loss of their son. He seems like a very strong person and his son seemed like a beautiful soul. I hope he and his family can find some peace eventually.

[@MizzNee796]

This makes me sad to be an American. I thank God that my children never had to go through anything near this!

[@1stnamebr406]

So God loves your kids not others

[@Jaykay033]

@@1stnamebr406go get help you bum …

[@funnylucina]

He only got to spend 18 years with his son and now he’s spent 25 years without him. That hits heavy, my condolences to your family Mr Shoels 💜

[@iPursueHappiness]

Thank you for doing this piece ❤So sorry for the pain this family has had to endure

[@craigandnem4597]

Why does he have to forgive his son’s killers? They only ask the families of Black victims this. What a stupid and shameful question.

[@reneedennis2011]

Thank you for this video.

[@mikhalaa746]

I see lots of comments saying "well werent they bullied". Being bullied doesn't make you go into school and shot up the place. weve all been bullied and majority of us NEVER thought to do something so SICK.

[@jazminmiller1071]

I can’t imagine having to grieve your son while being scrutinized and insulted Isaiah should still be here and Michael shoels should not have to deal with this

[@mrsTraveller64]

What a horrible sad disgusting slaughter of innocent people, and all for nothing.

[@kenyabrantley1673]

We is blacks, sometimes think the education is better in the suburbs, but not understanding the social ramifications that the kid may go through and then they will attend a predominately white collagen institution only to hang out at the black student union on campus. Well if you are going to do that, you might as well attend a HBCU. I am a proud graduate of Langston 8:25 University AHBCU it may not be the best, but it made me the best.

[@obettoobetto9383]

Please remember paid education like college/university is very different to the education received at an adolescent age, your education at college/university is contingent on weather your paying your fees or not but adolescent education could literally make or break a child

[@kenyabrantley1673]

Do you think black kids that go to suburb schools do better, I believe if they’re playing sports yes if not, I don’t think they do very well

[@indiaannarie6023]

Why ask about forgiveness? Would they have forgiven him?

[@RapFanatic4ever]

I’m sorry for your loss sir . As well as the loss of the families of the other victims

[@Dustin-fi8gj]

You don’t have to forgive anyone for taking your child’s life.

[@jazminmiller1071]

Exactly no one should dictate someone’s grieving process

[@susanthompson7371]

God has your son in his hands, Mr. Shoels continue to stand strong and keep faith and keep you family in prayers ! 🙏🏽

[@AngelaShawWestoven]

Why are victims always asked if they forgive? A big fat NO!

[@2neetoon]

Smh what is there to say? It's so sad that happened and even sadder that it continues to happen.

[@AJR-zg2py]

I think the biggest reason compelling this man to finally break his long silence is the recent verdict that sentenced Ethan Crumbley's parents to many years in prison. The fact that this man was harassed for seeking accountability was awful... and I bet he's feeling REALLY vindicated right now knowing that there is now legal precedent to hold the parents responsible.

[@andrewYashua7490]

RIP Isaiah keep watching over your family that never got to see you kick this world's ass because you would have been awesome not fair your life was cut so short when so many people dont see the value in life like you did😡😡😓

[@user-wk9xn2qu9d]

rip to all the victims i was born less then 2 months after this first school shooting that shoudve been the last so sad

[@dishish]

it definitely wasnt the first one, but the worst for the time :(

[@Sj430]

I was 12 years old when columbine happened.

[@ashleytheseeker8480]

I was a freshman in high school. This was an event you cant forget. And our govt juat keeps letting it happen.

[@Meriysi]

His life was taken but I hope his memory never dies

[@himgod6495]

Those parents should have gone to jail for leaving those guns out and unsecured.

[@lions679]

Isaiah was my friend and classmate went to school with Isaiah great friend rest in peace my brother i miss you ❤❤❤❤❤❤ fly with the angels

[@conciousgrein8093]

Thank you for sharing your story and all about Isaiah

[@mildredealy-shelton3316]

I visit his Memorial every time I go to Colorado.

[@guymerritt4860]

As a Michigander I was overjoyed that the Crumbley parents went to prison. That stuff happened about 10-miles from my house and Mr. Shoels is absolutely right on - they start charging parents and parents will start keeping tabs on what their kids are doing. My condolences to all of the families and, of course, these nut cases at Columbine would have singled out one of the few black students. My condolences to all of the victims at Columbine and Oxford and all the other schools. This is a crazy world.

[@Bricktown982]

Thank you for giving him a voice and dignifying this interview.

[@rikkifitnessmama]

Me and Isaiah share the same birthday I think about him sometimes. That poor man didn’t deserve to bury his child. I wish they would show a video of Isaiah so we can hear his voice.

[@karlae8445]

My heart aches so badly for your family😭😭😭 If you've never heard the song "Kiss the Son" by Kevin Prosch, I hope it will be a comfort to your family. I didnt even realize it's 25 years since I graduated high school until I saw it was 25 years since this happened. I remember it like it was yesterday 😭

[@pamalabrooks7857]

Hearing his father talk brought tears, chills and sadness thinking back to that day. God bless everyone that is touched by hate, racism and just ignorant people. 😢