The Morbid Case of The "Dark Knight" Massacre | 12 Fatalities...

James Holmes was a troubled child who reported seeing "nail ghosts" at night. In adulthood, he would become one of America's most hated criminals after taking the lives of twelve people at a cinema in Aurora, Colorado. In this video we also explore the diary he left behind.
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00:00 Intro
01:21 San Diego
02:27 The troubling life of James Holmes
11:19 Psychological Downfall
15:30 James' Diary (Pt 1 of 2)
17:30 July 20th 2012...
20:43 Aftermath and Rememberance
25:58 James' Diary (Pt 2 of 2)
27:30 Legal Proceedings
29:25 Our scars run deep
31:39 Outro
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[@Taylor.Schriefer]

Watching these as a parent, I never underestimate the importance of letting a child talk about their emotions. It's not always a point in these cases, but it is a regular topic

[@mericanignoranc3551]

Talking isn't enough , professional medical help is needed too. Your comment is over simplistic...

[@beaulieuc8910]

It's better not to have kids. Too many are involved in crimev

[@It-is-me...Melsie]

@@beaulieuc8910 The vast majority are not. Most children are regular normal people who grow into regular normal adults.

[@jus__gra]

⁠​⁠@@mericanignoranc3551“professional medical help is needed too”. So; what was the downfall of dark knight kid? He had that help.

[@P9rkour90]

@@beaulieuc8910🙄🙄

[@TheBlanketGhost]

i can't believe the mom, a MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL, never thought to bring their son to therapy or a licensed psychologist to help him through his hallucinations. This should qualify as neglect.

[@d0cknight782]

Sad reality is; in any profession we have a propensity to leave work at work. We tend to not overtly look for signs and symptoms of mental illness in this regard when we get home. I’m not saying it’s not tragic nor am I discounting the young man was seriously disturbed. Just saying it’s what happened.

[@loulou3676]

She's an RN, probably doesn't even deal with mental health

[@RaccAttack77]

@@loulou3676Regardless of her position, she’s a disgrace to the medical field, mental or otherwise when she did nothing for her son. Also, I don’t think you appreciate the absolute crazies RNs have to deal with

[@Kuntara466]

You'd be surprised, I know a licensed nurse who is against getting the Covid vaccine 😭

[@josefk7437]

She might also know how incompetent most licensed psychologists she knows are or if the process of licensing psychologists is more messed up than most of us think.

[@edanradetsky9716]

My aunt was the manager on duty at the theater that night. She survived thankfully but has severe PTSD, I remember waking up to the news and immediately worrying about my aunt. It was horrible.

[@fiendtrip7483]

Sucks for her lol

[@davidpetrusevski8042]

Wtf is wrong with u ​@@fiendtrip7483

[@nukaghoula]

​@@fiendtrip7483 it's absolutely not normal for you to feel it appropriate to laugh at a survivor like this. Please, seek mental help.

[@-Bonny_TheBunny-]

@@fiendtrip7483why are you saying lol 😐 that’s not funny at all

[@haroldplemmons9479]

​@fiendtrip7483 only thing that sucks is that it wasn't you instead.

[@user-rl8fx2rg9e]

I knew Alex Sullivan personally. He was a gentle human being. He was there celebrating his birthday with his coworkers and friends. This event shattered so many lives.

[@rustincole_w1339]

Shame they lied to his family about who killed him and those 11 others ... Blaming it on that drugged up patsy

[@DPWFG]

I wonder if this could have been avoided if mom and dad got their child help when he started showing signs of the schizophrenia that runs the family 🤔

[@2sons1lv]

Yes, especially when you know that you have mental illness in your family

[@foo219]

Absolutely. If he had been medicated and treated immediately, or had been given competent help later in life when he sought it, this wouldn't have happened. It probably didn't help that he could get military hardware over the counter either...

[@tessaducek5601]

Most likely. They did not encourage talking about problems. But he was prescribed treatment and chose to take only a little medication. So he knew he had a problem. He just didn't persue it in more depth. Its really too bad. For his victims and himself.

[@lostandfound5145]

My boomer parents were convinced I was schizophrenic when I was a rebellious teenager because it runs in the family (and anything to avoid taking responsibility for their abusive parenting style that caused all four of their kids to act out as teenagers) so I begged for therapy but they wouldn’t take me because therapy is “pseudoscience” 😂 that was the 90s for a lot of us.

[@steveperreira5850]

Look at the situation. They are busy professionals and they think their kid is brilliant. What can I say other than something kind of depressing but true. Most parents are lousy parents. Especially nowadays, when they can’t really even discipline their child. I know the situation too well. As a parent, divorced, my hands were tied behind my back. It took a long time, almost 10 years, and some luck, not just my interventions, to undo the damage done by the custodian parent of my child, my incompetent ex wife. To this day she thinks she is a great parent, but in fact she was about as bad as they get, not quite the worst.

[@uhsaywhatnow]

His parents had such disgusting nerve to ask for leniency when they had all of the money and access to healthcare when he first expressed his mental health concerns as a child. They were wealthy, intelligent and knew full well of their family’s history of mental illness and yet they did nothing. This massacre is as much on them as it is on the shooter.

[@thielemegan]

There is no way the parents Wed have seen this coming.

[@faerierain7536]

@@thielemeganNot this exactly, but he had an obvious descent into madness. When one of my loved ones expressed violent and homicidal impulses I petitioned to have an emergency evaluation and temporarily institutionalization to protect himself and others. I was 16 with no immediate resources, psychological knowledge, or financial support but refused to let it go. I’d begged professionals for help for hours while crying my eyes out. I refuse to think their negligence played no part when I fought so hard as a teenager with nothing for everyone’s well-being. My family doesn’t even have a severe history of mental illness but his actions spoke loudly enough.

[@nicolehosein284]

I agree, I think the parents were probably either worried about how he would be labelled by family/friends or they were too busy in their own world to care about what he really needed.

[@carmenpascual2383]

I agree

[@peacefulheart9096]

Narcistic parents will always find excuses and Will never take responsibility of their action.. everything is everybody else , society and many other ( you name it ) faults.

[@Realtor_Brook]

I grew up in Aurora, and was watching the dark knight rises at the other theatre the night this happened (AMC Arapahoe crossing 16) . I’ve never cried during any of your videos, but this one hit hard. Even though I didn’t know any of the victims personally, the impact this had on everyone in our community was something I’ll never shake. The next morning everyone was receiving phone calls because we just didn’t know who was at that theatre. Before they made the permanent memorial, there was a memorial hosted shortly after the attack where tons of people in aurora got together and left gifts and candles next to the theatre. Thank you for covering this story and keeping the memory of the victims alive.

[@brandon8331]

does anyone know any of the victims family ??

[@GodhandGanesha]

I was born and raised in Denver... Like other locals, it hit close to home and regardless we were unlikely to drive all the way to Aurora for the movie premiere, my family and I were equally shocked and affected in a deep way by the tragedy. This was of course after the Columbine shooting but we felt "it could have been us", hesitant to attend movies for a while after that. It's hard to think back to those times, and I'm currently staying in Utah with my mom who has since moved, but as a Coloradan, I feel it's important to honor and remember the hard times as well as the good.

[@brandon8331]

@@GodhandGanesha fake account

[@Squinnsmckenzie]

This case is close to me. I grew up going to the Aurora theater. I had been asked to go that night to the movie, but had to work overnight so I couldn’t go. I had friends who were there who would never forget the blood of someone else on their clothes, knew AJ (RIP) and his girlfriend that he died to save. It was just an all around tragedy and still effects a lot of us to this day

[@connoroleary591]

Very sad. Those things stay with you forever. I hope you and the community are recovering and finding strength in one another.

[@theslipperking]

@@vivelajonnywoah!

[@hyukazz]

​@@vivelajonny omg whattttt

[@laurieb3703]

I'm so sorry 😢 I'm glad you weren't there!

[@ChristianMassey-xi9dh]

I'm really sorry for ur loss.

[@miriams.4341]

This is such a tragedy. He saw a therapist, who broke the code to inform the family, potentially putting his license at risk. The family itself had a history of mental illness, yet the parents didn’t react when their son began showing unusual behaviour and even ignoring his reports of seeing things that weren’t there…with schizophrenia in the family…which is well known to have a hereditary factor…just…it honestly hurts. The poor people in that cinema.

[@atmoney4206]

Yeah I had that thought myself. For how “educated” his parents were they definitely dropped the ball hard on getting him help. I have 2 boys and though it would kill me I wouldn’t hesitate to have either of them institutionalized if they showed signs of this level of mental illness. Not only for the public’s safety but their own. They would be looking to me as if I let them down had I ignored the hug red flags this kid was throwing at me. Maybe it’s easier for me to say my own dad is bipolar and I have had to 302 (put him in a mental hospital against his own wishes) at least 10 times in my adult life and not one time was easy but it had to be done bc he was manic and unable to see how he could possibly get hurt or hurt someone in that state. It’s just heartbreaking that these two educated ppl ignored clear warning signs and a literally visit or contact with his therapist to inform them of he dark thoughts only to ignore all of it. I’m not trying to put all the blame on his parents but let’s be real ppl they would be lying if they said they didn’t know their son had issues he clearly told them he was seeing shit that is red flag ignored number one. The fact that his mom could not get one child to want to play with him red flag number two. And I don’t know how you can ignore a therapist willing to break hippa laws possibly lose her license to practice forever bc she was so concerned about this person acting out while in the state of mind he was. It’s all just too much for me to say ok they had idea and I didn’t hear Adrian mention any comment from the parents after the fact as if they didn’t talk to anyone about what their own child did. Kudos to his therapist for trying though and isn’t there always some weird messed up warning that could have possibly prevented the outcome that doesn’t make it where it needs to go? That notebook seemed to have his last cry for help in it and had it gotten to the therapist maybe something would have been done prior to the shooting. It’s all very sad and I am so sorry to all the families and friends of lost loved ones from this day. 😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇😇

[@meentage]

Wer should not in anyway try and deflect the crime he committed onto anybody.

[@joyanna9433]

and yet, he could by mulitpe guns, ammo and gear. Americans are completly ok with that, apperantly, because americans dont do ANYTHING about it. Nothing.

[@TheMomseloc]

LOL. By the logic of the comment about yours, it's all the medical profession's fault. 😂😂😂 Can't fix crazy.

[@magallanesagustin4952]

@@TheMomseloc OP never said such thing.

[@manuelzenteno6410]

On a happier sidenote, the actor Christian Bale went to visit all of the victims that were on the hospitals after the attack for moral support.

[@astrostar49]

"Now that's more like it Mr. Wayne :) "

[@quinnlovescats]

I had no idea he did that! Christian Bale is a class act and I’m glad the surviving injured have something to smile about when thinking about such a horrible time in their lives.

[@MrAky4]

Sounds like the parents are to blame 100% he was asking for help and they wanted not to help 😡 some people shouldn't have children

[@Got_Issues]

Patrick Bateman really does have a heart. In all seriousness tho this fact made my day, thank you.

[@river9994]

What I learnt from this story, is that EVERYONE needs to step up, we can all make a difference, say a few encouraging words, don't give up on people, reach out a hand, try to be a friend even if it is hard. At the end of every upload Adrian says "Look after yourself, look after each other ...." Sometimes all it may take is a simple word of encouragement to make the difference.

[@SamanthaLevingsAngelRose1219]

I agree 100%! Sometimes just being that listening ear can make a world of difference....

[@kaerligheden]

That's so true!!!

[@learningisfun273]

It takes a village to raise a child. We're in this together!

[@quiethills1999]

Absolutely not. This guy was a creep to women. There are too many creeps out there. He needed therapy, not women to be forced to be nice to him. We have enough to deal with ourselves

[@river9994]

@@quiethills1999 who said it had to be women? My comment wasn't about gender. It was however about showing compassion, empathy and friendship towards another human being. It also wasn't even about this individual but to anyone we come across.

[@Slappa31]

Just want to say that (and im sure most people know) not everyone who has mental issues or sees a therapist is going to be unhinged. The stigma behind mental health really lets some people down

[@chrysanthiechrissos-yy4hi]

Thank you

[@MichaelLovely-mr6oh]

We need to teach people who might be having mental health issues that it's okay to ask for help. A lot of people don't believe that James Holmes was insane or psychotic at the time of the crime and that he was fully aware his actions were wrong. Others believe that James was severely mentally ill and needed intensive competent psychiatric care. One frequently cited piece of evidence is the many appointments James had with his psychiatrist Dr. Lynne Fenton. When he learned that the Prosecution was intent on seeking the Death Penalty against him (as Colorado was a Death Penalty state in 2012) it was the reason why James pleaded Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity.

[@beingtoreyjohnson8874]

Amen

[@Spookymami3]

This hits close to home for me, my brother was suppose to go to a midnight showing but was sick and my dad decided to give away the tickets. My cousin and his friend were fortunately okay. My heart still hurts for all lost. Sending love to all

[@beaulieuc8910]

Close call so scary. I tend to avoid busy places attracts nutjobs

[@sarahkorus994]

I had a friend who was at the showing and miraculously got out unscathed. This one really hits close to home so I don’t know if I’ll be able to watch this one. It doesn’t help that the theater is about ten minutes from my office either.

[@qbrown8367]

❤

[@LaLisa1024]

Wow, someone was looking out for your family🙏🏼 …mentally, are you cousin and the friend okay? I can’t imagine what they saw in real life.

[@timpage9424]

Grew up going to that theater and I was in Parker that night because I wanted to see it in IMAX, probably the only reason I wasn't in that theater that night was because I wanted a cool poster.

[@terricolarusso2639]

Thank you for remembering the names of the victims twice. A lot of crime channels are sensationalizing the crime with very little respect and acknowledgement to the victims and their families. Kudos to you

[@seamripper0000]

I remember watching parts of the trial, you could see in his eyes how sick he was. This kid should have had help years ago, maybe this tragedy wouldn't have happened.

[@bstorm4413]

As a retired psychiatric NP, it sounds as if he had a severe psychotic break in his teenage years and NO ONE bothered to help him. I do not know the laws regarding this in Colorado, but the states I have worked in we would have performed an evaluation for a FORCED pyschiatirc inpatient admission. This requires 3 psychiatric personnel (usually at least 1 Psychiatrist and 2 Psychologists or 2-3 Psychiatrists, with the other member being a Psychologist) who meet with the patient for analysis plus a review of his medical and psychological charts.

[@stevenobrien6406]

What would the chance of being autistic and undiagnosed and unheard had led directly to that break? Or that the break sent him into introvert unselfaware BPD?

[@wolfmoon3431]

He clearly was not of sound mind and suffering some kind of psychotic episode, severe mental illness or psychosis (you can tell by his eyes) and having had drug-induced psychosis along time ago in my own troubled youth, I think it is very sad he did not receive the help and mental health support he very obviously needed which, then led to this horrific tragedy for the citizens of Aurora😔

[@jasonrublaitus7144]

@@wolfmoon3431I too, have experienced drug induced psychosis (meth) and I can really sympathize with people that have to deal with it because it is TERRIFYING! I thought one of three guys I was with was trying to kill me (even saw a knife in his hand and a crazed look in his eyes) and I freaked, got up and ran straight through a glass door, cutting my arm, got out of the house ran into the middle of a busy road (Thursday morning rush hr) then ran up to a random house that had an unlocked door and entered, locked the door behind me and was greeted with a shotgun minutes later. Thankfully my life was spared. I got clean after that weekend in jail, over 8 years ago. 😊

[@horrorjoy8368]

I’m immediately judging the parents. “We just don’t talk about these things.” Early and comprehensive intervention would have likely stopped this.

[@schrisdellopoulos9244]

Thank you.

[@Erebus.666.]

Some families don't talk about these things. It is their fault, it's just the way they are. In fact, they are just as much victims of their own upbringings, and infinitum.... "They f*ck you up, your mum and dad. They may not mean to, but they do....." as the poem goes.

[@foo219]

Yeah. Every death is at least a negligent homicide on the side of the parents.

[@tessaducek5601]

I talked to my kids all the time and they felt comfortable talking about anything with me. Now they are all married and have great relationships with their spouses. married ten fifteen and twenty two years. With todays disposable marriages I think this is a good thing.

[@vizardnaruto3]

His parents seemed to be robotic

[@elizabethbarajas8614]

We’ve seen mental illness play a huge role in these cases time and time again. What would happen if people actually received the care they deserved? I hope to one day see it. Tragic case. My heart goes out to the victims.

[@T_bone]

It should be compelled for more than just a few days.

[@VioletJoy]

In this case, his parents were responsible for getting him help, but they failed.

[@libertyresearch-iu4fy]

@@VioletJoy He got help, but he stopped going.

[@VioletJoy]

@@libertyresearch-iu4fy That was WAY too late. It's very common for those with severe mental illness to avoid getting help and take medication consistently. His parents should have gotten help for him when he was young.

[@reptoidfancy666]

​@VioletJoy and how many people with mental illness do NOT go out and murder people... its the access to firearms that is a large part of the problem not just the mental health piece... also, look at all the planning involved with Holmes' actions. Is that mental illness too?

[@codydennis5884]

I worked at the Johnny Carinos in Aurora right next to the movie theater and decided to go to see Dark Knight that evening and told my buddy we should go to the 16th Street mall showing downtown instead cause "A town" was sketchy. My phone was going crazy during the movie because I told my parents I was going to see the movie and they thought I was at the Aurora showing. Very spooky and I feel soo sorry for the victims that went to the showing that evening.

[@quinnlovescats]

I’m so glad you chose a different theatre! I can’t even imagine the panic your parents were feeling.

[@andrewjames8158]

Universe had your back that night, glad you're still here and hope you are doing something constructive and positive with your life!!

[@riveramnell143]

The reason I can’t watch a movie in the theater anymore. The idea of being in a dark room like that with one or two exits and a loud movie playing seems so dangerous to me now. I can’t imagine the terror those people went through that night. So senseless. My heart goes out to them all.

[@the_kombinator]

I can't remember the last movie I saw in a theater. It was probably more than 10 years ago when I was dating my now wife. I have a nice setup at home, I haven't missed going to the theatres with making out teenagers, mouthbreathers eating popcorn loudly, and sticky floors.

[@NovemberCrystal]

A sad reminder of this tragedy would be one of the victim's social media profiles. Jessica Ghawi's last post on Twitter was about her going to watch The Dark Knight and her twitter was quite active up until then. Seeing it end so abruptly with no one updating it to mark her passing just kind of gives me a lump in my throat. It's still up to this day and and an awful reminder that these people were just living day-by-day, enjoying the small moments in life until it suddenly got taken away by some waste of space, leaving this giant void behind.

[@SAOS451316]

The Internet is full of ghosts. A friend of mine invented a minor subculture and I still see their posts making the rounds even though they died several years ago.

[@TheLikenessOfNormal]

@@SAOS451316 Takes Dead Internet Theory to a whole new place.

[@TheUsualSuspekt]

She also escaped a shooting prior to this in Toronto the month prior.

[@startthefirstchapter]

And it seemed she had an argument with her friend whether to go or not and she “won” 😢

[@kristyparlor7849]

I was a movie theater manager when this happened and omg we had so much security and safety routines we had to go over just in case of an active shooter. It was really scary.

[@edanradetsky9716]

My aunt was the manager on duty that night at that theater. Woke up scared out of my mind with worry.

[@ashw113]

A friend of mine was best friends with Jessica, and while I never knew her, it tore my friend apart when this happened. I can only imagine how the other close friends and families of the victims felt dealing with such senseless loss.

[@angelisaura8039]

I am a former employee of Century Theatres 16. I was already living in a different state when I heard about this horrific massacre. All my thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families.

[@fone9665]

Well, his parents didn't exactly help, did they? Ignoring him, refusing to talk feelings, moving him away from all of his friends, at the age of 13, leaving him lonely frustrated, and, eventually angry His mother is a nurse, for Christ's sake What's her excuse?

[@robinedwards8796]

There's a huge difference between being book smart and emotional intelligence. His parents had next to no emotional intelligence obviously. That happens WAY more often than you'd think.

[@whatsmolly5741]

​@robinedwards8796 yes iv come to learn that the adult world is filled by people who have the emotional maturity of toddlers to the point where it's almost normalized.

[@marilynschmidt6400]

​@@whatsmolly5741 Agree. Never underestimate the subject of Emotional Intelligence. Should be a pre requisite before even considering having a child or family

[@LadyRokubi]

The mom made it even worse by going around and trying to set up PLAY DATES for her teenage son. You know he was bullied/ shunned so bad for that by his peers. She failed her son so completely.

[@nhmooytis7058]

She’s likely a malignant narcissist.

[@THANATOS-PRIME]

This happened in my state. The night that it happened I was actually at a pre-screening for the movie and I remember when I got home both of my parents ran up to me and gave me the biggest hug. For context, my phone had died while I was waiting to see the movie. My heart goes out to all of the victims and their loved ones.

[@allthingsmotor1073]

Jonathan Blunk was the hero who saved my childhood friend Jansen, she was always the kindest person to everyone and it breaks my heart that she had to go through this horrific event. Jonathan who was 26 years old at the time, was one of 12 victims killed in the Aurora theater shooting, during the midnight screening of The Dark Night Rises on July 20, 2012. Jon had attended Proctor Hug High School in Reno, where he and his wife Chantel met. After his 2004 high school graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the USS Nimitz in San Diego. He left the Navy, separated from his wife and moved to Colorado in 2009. He had been working at a hardware store at the time of the theater shooting. He had been at the theater with his girlfriend Jansen Young, they had been dating since October. Jon was shot to death while protecting his girlfriend's life. She said that when the shooter started his attack, Jon knew to throw her to the floor. On the movie-theater floor, he kept pushing her with his arms as she heard shots being fired. She eventually noticed that he had stopped pushing her under the seat, but she didn't think he had been killed. Jon's estranged wife, Chantel Blunk, who lives in Reno, NV with their two children - a 4-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy - was notified of his death by the FBI. "He always talked about if he were going to die, he wanted to die a hero," she said. He probably imagined that would happen in the military and not in a suburban movie theater. Rest in Peace Jonathan Thomas Blunk (January 20, 1986 - July 20, 2012)

[@Black_Saturn1738]

It's always interesting looking at stories that have to do with isolation and social awkwardness leading into something tragic... I've been both these things my entire life but I decided to fill my time with hobbies and positive things even though I was Alone in the social aspect🙏🏿 It's always disappointing to see where things could have went right but they went left😔

[@laurieb3703]

Because you have a soul 😢❤

[@Lola-AreaCode212]

@Black_Saturn1738 have you done a test for autism? I've been that way my entire life too and surprise surprise, I find out at 36 that I'm autistic. 😳 It all makes sense now. My son is diagnosed too, and I'm certain my father was on the spectrum as well. The diagnosis can explain so much.

[@TheMomseloc]

This is a tragic case of a young man that had no friends and related to an evil villain, thus becoming his hero. I had a patient that thought he was Batman, he went around doing Superhero stuff. Who was more "crazy"?

[@nitronical6762]

Bro this guy was.likely schizophrenic and had visions of "nail ghosts" when he was a kid. He wasnt just lonely or awkward lol.

[@CatLadyofUtah]

I am an autoimmune patient and sensitive to medications. I was given a neurological medication and after three doses I woke up and was in the center of a huge Sumo wrestling arena and a match was ongoing. I knew it wasn’t real, called some family to come stay with me. I went to the doctor the next day and stopped that medication. It is a frightening feeling, and I knew it wasn’t real. I can’t imagine not being able to distinguish the difference. 😮🥺😵‍💫

[@jpeg42069]

I can’t go into a theater without thinking about this event and how trapped those poor people must have felt. It makes my stomach turn. Rest in peace, I’m so sorry this happened to you.

[@SatanenPerkele]

Stuff like this is why I always take a mental note of the emergency exits and paying attention to the people around me.

[@RajHK8]

@@SatanenPerkeleso you live your life in fear, sounds fun.

[@SatanenPerkele]

@@RajHK8 Nope. Just common sense. If I hear a fire alarm or there's a black out in a mall or something I walk out. I don't stand there and ignore it like most people do.

[@jiggly3252]

him delivering the notebook was probably his last cry for help, i wonder what would've been the outcome if it actually have been delivered to his therapist.

[@jenniferb2763]

You've really excelled at this one Adrian. You've presented this so exceptionally well. Reflecting on James, watching his clear decline and presentation of a SEVERE mental illness with images and reports from Dr Fenton is really tragic. His parents really let him down. Schizophrenia often presents in university. This really could have been prevented.

[@William.Williams]

Crazy how the therapist tried but could do nothing that wouldn’t have made her lose her license Edit: I’m sorry for my English I was doing laundry while watching and commenting 😭 I meant „It's crazy how the therapist tried but couldn't do anything without risking her license.“ Hope this helps xoxo

[@matbroomfield]

Not at all. He broke no laws and made no threats. What do you think she should have been able to do?

[@KimVerhaaff]

Therapy should be a place where you can share anything. Even if you have dark thoughts. If just anything can be reported, nobody would go. Only if a p er person threatens harm, they are allowed to intervene.

[@st.peterunner8758]

Too many negatives. “Could do nothing that wouldn’t” doesn’t even make sense

[@KimVerhaaff]

@@st.peterunner8758 Not all who watch are native English speakers. Why comment this? What does it add to the conversation?

[@SleepySloth2705]

That law was changed after this mass shooting, if I'm not mistaken

[@livearandomlife]

My thoughts: 1. I have family that lives in Aurora and I remember being so worried about them when I saw this 2. Now seeing the full story and his full background I do feel a bit sad for him, but that in no way excuses what he did 3. I feel bad for his poor psychologist, I bet she has so much guilt knowing that this is the direction that he was going and legally no being able to speak up.

[@Viable7]

She did speak up. She called Campus police and the threat assessment team. Excuse she identified that he was a threat, but she reportedly declined to put him on a psychiatric hold. She’s a moron.

[@binxwaxcap7832]

Legally they are 1000000% allowed to speak up. If a psychiatrist knows that their client is going to commit a act of violence, they are mandated to report it. She failed to do her job properly.

[@janetmiller2980]

​@@binxwaxcap7832Per information provided by our host, she was not legally allowed to share her client's session, nor contact law enforcement, because he hadn't made threats of violence against anyone in particular. The threat of violence was more generic. Not sure if that's a state law in Colorado, or in general for mental health workers, but Adrian does mention it.

[@xchino0427]

I live in aurora and grew up in aurora. I live really close to that theater and I don't feel sad about his ugly mental health. Dude could rot in hell

[@alexiabailey905]

I was a few states away at the midnight showing and I remember hearing about the shooting the next morning thinking how scared they must have been just enjoying a movie with their friends like I was. It's still heartbreaking to think about

[@mr.snippy]

I almost didn't click on this story because I've heard it covered so many times but im glad I did. You gave us so many more details about his family dynamics and his overall social life. RIP to those poor souls.

[@dearcole123]

This is honestly one of the most terrifying Mass shooting events I’ve ever seen …. The idea of just going to a movie with friends family or loved ones, settling in to a dark movie theater. And then having something so absolutely unthinkable, random, and terrifying happen - it’s scary. This one stuck with me for years and years after hearing about it.

[@jmt8706official]

I'll admit I stopped going to movie theaters for a long time after this.

[@ChuckDanger]

It can happen anywhere. Store, uber, school, driving. Can't let it dictate your life.

[@whatever451000]

Like many others I STILL think of this man whenever I go to a movie theater, I always look for the exits. What a horrible, tragedy that could have been stopped.

[@alexnicolaou3579]

it's crazy to think that not only did he get to go to his car in full tactical gear, he stayed there for a bit.. it's entirely possible he could have gotten away and either fled to mexico before he became a suspect, or just took off the gear, blended in with the shocked and confused crowd, and later returned to the car, drove off, disposed of everything and no one would have ever known it was him (until the lost book was eventually found). he got caught because he wanted to get caught. if he planned for a getaway it would have been quite easy in the panic

[@honestfan420]

I am a survivor of a mass shooting. Until you live through one, you never think it will happen to you. Sadly, it’s becoming all too normal in the US. RIP to all those lost in these terrible events.

[@truth_hunter]

The patents didn’t help him when he reached out to them. The parents also knew there’s a family history of mental illnesses, especially, schizophrenia. If they did their part when he told them about the crazy things he saw and how it made him feel he may have been treated and been able to behave better and have a better quality of life. Sad so many people lost their lives and many others severely injured. I know this isn’t about me, but I told my mom I was suicidal at age 13. She didn’t take it seriously so I struggled so many years with it. The only good thing is I never thought about hurting anyone but myself. I’m just saying parents need to listen to their children and stop ignorant them or thinking they are just trying to get attention or something.

[@janetmiller2980]

Why should you have to say this isn't about you? You should feel free to share your experiences, too. Someone in my life had the nerve to pull that expression on me when I expressed frustration ("So this is about you?") and I told him where to put it. It really is a rude way of saying to another one isn't open to what the other person has to say.

[@truth_hunter]

@@janetmiller2980 I know how people are so that why I said it. People like to argue about everything I get tired of it.

[@danmccarron0]

@@janetmiller2980 that's the usual "disarming" decorum when talking about yourself because some people DO make a discussion about them, and needlessly try to hijack the conversation in a way that is inappropriate. Obviously that is a gray area but most people know it when they see it. Best to disarm it ahead of time even if you are in the "safe" zone.

[@truth_hunter]

@@musickat344 that’s very sad. I hope you’re getting the help you need now.

[@jent2265]

I'm sorry to hear you struggled needlessly for years alone. I hope you are able to talk to someone more whenever or if ever you are feeling sad etc. You're never Alone I will keep you in my thoughts always ❤️

[@sereneprincess4940]

The fact that the therapist cared more about his safety, and that of the community, than his own parents... really speaks volumes to the absentee parenting that is endemic in the US. You can give a child healthy food, a roof over their head, a great education... but unless you actually love your child, there's a non-zero chance of them growing up to hurt other people.

[@Storm-fy7iq]

I actually live in Aurora Colorado about 5 minutes away from that theater. It still hurts my heart every time I pass it. People can be so awful.

[@RGTFLA85]

I was just getting off of work on a 12 hour nightshift when I heard the news about this on the radio. I remember crying although I don't know anyone in that state. This one shook me pretty bad because I didn't plan to go to a midnight showing but loved going to them in the past. This case touches a nerve but look forward to listening to the next case you cover.

[@coderlicious6565]

That's insulting to allow the parents in court to show camping trips of their son as a way to plead for getting out of a death penalty. How do any of the dozen victims' families even begin to care about that?

[@nicolehosein284]

Yes, it was an insult to the innocent victims and their families knowing that they will no longer be able to take trips and celebrate occasions. His parents should have acted earlier on his experiences because they knew the family history of mental health issues

[@thedesensitizedsympathizer5307]

Yes. James didn't do it out of sadism. He was mentally ill. He never asked to have these illnesses.

[@rynemcgriffin1752]

@@thedesensitizedsympathizer5307But But there were things he could’ve done to fix it, he had medical professionals available to help him and he rejected it all

[@liamhull]

​@rynemcgriffin1752 Don't you think that was his mental illness refusing help? I would say it was his parents responsibility to get him the correct help.

[@f0rkz21]

@@thedesensitizedsympathizer5307 nope. Not buying it. He needs to be removed from society and not behind bars.

[@marycarter6134]

His doctor only had a colleague sit in on one session with James. And even though he kept saying he wanted to kill people, she was forbidden by law from calling police. He didn't specifically name anyone he wanted to kill and that was the problem. The doctor caught a lot of flak after the murders for not reporting him. She finally had to move away from Aurora and find a house in a rural area and interact with patients only by computer.

[@cdes1776]

Victimized because her hands were tied. People need to turn their anger into change but it's easy to blame others sitting at home.

[@WhoisFulcanelli]

California

[@nhmooytis7058]

@@WhoisFulcanelli CA has had a duty to warn since the Seventies, see Tarasoff v Board of Regents. CO does not.

[@zane1941]

This is such a bizarre law to hear as a Canadian! Here we have patient-client confidentiality UNLESS there are plans to harm yourself or others. Seems like USA has to update this law because it clearly makes no sense!

[@monemarie7280]

But I thought if you were a danger to yourself and or others they had to report you?

[@Komainu959]

I'm pretty conflicted on this one. One of the few times I actually feel like the murderer James was really a victim of his own circumstances. His own mental illness caused him to be outcast and lack the social skills needed to become part of society. Societies lack of recognizing this and hence our poor treatment of these types of peoples only made it worse and finally he genuinely seemed to be looking for a way to get help and find a way out. I believe he sent his notebook to his doctor because he wanted to be stopped and figured if nothing happened then it was fate at that point.

[@Avsfan23]

The pain of social isolation is extremely intense. It's one of the worst kinds of suffering. I'm not condoning his actions, but I want to cry knowing how painful his life was before he did this.

[@MarvFitBikesKicks]

Man, social anxiety is a terrible thing to have to live with. I know it all too well

[@Capn_alii]

This case is literally the reason I never go to opening weekends for movies .. I usually wait a week or two after

[@SamanthaLevingsAngelRose1219]

Same. I don't go to midnight showings anymore either.

[@ritarodriguez-gallion9253]

Here from Colorado Denver. Side story to this. I heard it from a friend. 2 weeks before the shooting, Holmes was at elitch gardens and smacked my friends little brother in the head for no reason. Their mom was so mad and reported it. 2 weeks later. When his mom saw the news, she pointed that Holmes was the guy who smacked my friend's brother. His mom later explained that he was acting so crazy. Be safe everyone. Thanks for the video. As always well put. The victims are the most important, not the suspect.

[@LadyAngela678]

Thats funny. I doubt it was him tho. 😂

[@Denise_Cocoa]

I absolutely still have trauma related to going to movie theaters after this, even after so long. I didn’t go to a theater for yearsss after and even now, I feel like I’m on edge and hyper vigilant and constantly run scenarios like this in my mind. The copycats shooting up Walmarts and grocery stores have done the same 😔

[@KackieJennedy]

Amazing, sensitive and sensible cover, Adrian! ❤ Thank you for the nuanced take on the case, I must say you're the only TC content creator who cares to elaborate on the multi-rooted circumstances in great detail. 👏 I enjoy your work a lot - keep up the good work ✨💜

[@joanbrennan2534]

His RN mom had to know the importance of an accurate family psych history. How tragic!

[@selecttravelvacations7472]

Denial happens even with the educated. And, to be fair, we don’t know what she thought or knew about her sons mental health for certain.

[@Snappy650]

Going door to door looking for friends for her son only isolated him. No sane person would see that working

[@CoffeeBeanWitch]

As a visiting Brit in a town in Colorado, I awoke to a slew of messages from friends and work colleagues (one stayed behind to see if I would respond to a call or email). When I called and asked what's going on I was instructed to put the telly which I hadn't done but then saw the reason for concern from the crazy news that went on. The night before was when my friend and I were meant to attend the Dark Knight movie which I had told friends at work about (not sure if it was this precise movie theatre we would've attended in Aurora) but nonetheless it was frightening. Luckily my friends basement finally burst after weeks of just springing a small manageable leak so we had to delay the visit. Divine intervention I'd say. We did go and watch the Dark Knight a week after but there were literally just a few people in attendance and we all were watching eachother and the entry and exit points all the way through the movie with some leaving half way through. So yep the aftermath was mad.

[@denisetherrien9689]

Thank you for once again covering a case with respect and dignity. I had heard this story before and thought I might not listen to yours but decided to go ahead. I’m so glad I did. Your research is impeccable, and always gives me chills the way you respect the victims and their families. There was so much I didn’t know. I feel so bad for children with mental illness and no one to turn to. Don’t get me wrong…His acts were horrific but he tried to get help.

[@jinxcat90]

I live in eastern Pennsylvania. My sister and I made an event of the midnight premiere of the movie. We went out for dinner, splurged on snacks, geeked out on the ride home. When we woke up to the news of this massacre the next day, we were more than a little freaked out.

[@joedertrek1]

I attended a Dark Knight trilogy marathon leading up to the midnight release of The Dark Knight Rises. I live in LA and the next morning upon hearing about the tragedy in Aurora, CO I thought to myself, "that could've been me." My heart broke for all those who attended and didn't make it out, and I pray for those who did survive yet are still affected from the actions of that night. It was heartwarming to see that Christian Bale visited shortly afterward.

[@fartonmyneck]

This story is so upsetting, but I truly can’t get over how respectfully you relay the information. I have followed several “crime” channels in the past and you’re really great at telling the story, while highlighting the victims with such respect. Thank you for your hard work.

[@bobbiesox6289]

You are right Adrian, this was a very interesting case. I really like how you are always respectful to the victims. Thank you for all you do. Merry Christmas 🎁🎄

[@Levy3o8]

I’m sure I’m not alone in how I appreciate how you covered what started such a hot topic debate by simply stating both sides’ positions, and then moving on. You did a very good job in covering the subject and didn’t weigh your personal opinion like other creators who mention controversial topics.

[@Speedracer-Girl]

At the time of this shooting, I lived 7 blocks from his apartment complex. Surrounded by news helicopters and military swat teams up and down the major streets, it was scary, and none of us slept for days after with this barrage of noises above us. We are incredibly glad that his 2nd plan failed miserably and he didn't blow up his apartment complex and the neighbors. Yet, he left a terrible scar on this community. Recently, I took a walk behind the theaters (which are still there and in use and the area where he was taken down has not changed) and prayed for everyone who was harmed or lost their lives that night. My heart goes out to them so much! When he was subdued, this psycho monster was then brought to the Arapahoe County detention facility where my sister, as a deputy, had dealings with him. He appeared to be catatonic (mostly for show she believed because he was VERY aware in the jail facility), but she remarked how he stared right through her and felt as if he hated, HATED her as a woman.

[@SanguiphiliaTV]

I think of this case every single time I step into a movie theater to this day. He took the peace of mind away of millions of people, who now always anxiously look for emergency exits and plan their escape before a movie begins. I agree with your final thoughts, of how the therapist should have been able to contact law enforcement.

[@andrew285]

I remember one time in the theatre when one guy just asked something towards the audience in general as he was standing in the isle.Ijust froze for a while as I thought it could start something bad...

[@JETHO321]

Not me. I carry

[@mattmorelli9833]

​@JETHO321 I see what you're saying, but even licensed carriers have fired shots in the theater. Check out the curtis reeves incident. Albeit this was a freak occurrence, i think its relevant to point it out to you. Check out a video dreading did on this reeves case. it's a very interesting case. But I'll give you this, if it were me I'd be glad I've got a gun with me if something like this went down. Could have changed the outcome.

[@EssenceofCoils]

Same!! I could barely enjoy being there anymore.

[@12484uespicysvideo]

changed the outcome? he had a gask mask.. and you wouldnt have one.. you wouldnt see anything and be shooting at random, probably at other innocent people.@@mattmorelli9833

[@richiesimons4403]

Why do people have to die before those responsible are psychologically evaluated ? Also, shame on the judge and jury for bottling the death penalty. Him spending his life in prison away from society is exactly what he wants. His family must also take massive responsibility for not seeking help when he was showing signs of something being wrong. Another excellently and compassionately made video Adrian. Well done.

[@shannon_leigh5223]

You’re amazing Adrian. I’m a huge true crime fan and your channel is the only one I find myself watching the last few months. So glad I found it. Thank you :)

[@VioletJoy]

I think it's beyond time to hold parents at least partially accountable. Parents are responsible for looking after the well-being of their children, particularly in very serious cases like this. This very well could have been avoided. It's heartbreaking. I can't help but feel for James having dealt with so much mental instability throughout his childhood. My heart goes out to all of the victims and all who cared for them. 💔

[@nhmooytis7058]

If parents knew they’d be held responsible, they’d be more likely to get help for their ‘troubled’ kids.

[@DemonSoul89420]

I'm not disagreeing, trust me I'm not. Prevention is absolutely the best way to deal with this and that's by getting help. But regardless, once you're an adult it is on YOU to seek out medical treatment. Even if they wanted to commit him as an adult, they'd have to prove he's a danger to himself or others and a little note book isn't enough. Sometimes it takes a full out fit with the cops called to do it. Even then, in my country when you're admitted you're subjected to a 72 hour hold. This can be extended if the doctor sees fit, but it isn't always. Sometimes people stay for a few months, but we don't have institutions. You have to be full out incapable of your own care to be in assisted living. Once your out the crisis nurse comes once, that's it. You sound good, perfect bye. You wait 6m+ to even see a psych You are spoken to for Maybe an hour max, given pills and out the door. I can't speak for the states, but if the bureaucracy mess is anything like here, regardless what his parents did or didn't do chances are it would end badly. The quality of care for mental health is what is going to help prevent tragedies like this.

[@nhmooytis7058]

@@DemonSoul89420 it’s extremely difficult to deal with dangerous people. It’s good to have strong laws to prevent psychiatric confinement for merely political reasons as happened in the USSR but in some cases even if someone hasn’t actually been violent YET there’s very ample evidence they’re planning to be. And in many cases these people do have a history of violence that gets ignored or excused.

[@DemonSoul89420]

@@nhmooytis7058 yes, I know. I'm mentally ill, I was basically giving a run down of my own experience. I have BPD and I've had to literally fight to get help. I've had to go around my family doctor because he gave me a placebo (????) I've had a trip to the ward. They don't even help really they push quiet pills and we got to sit in a ball pit lmfao. My illness can definitely be dangerous but I'm far from the only loon I know with this experience. I have friends who work in assisted living and tbh they're not even equipped for the dangerous ones. There's one in particular I call Hannibal (I'm not allowed to know actual names for obvs reasons) that's: almost scalped a woman in the parking lot (had to build a fence to prevent another incident) he bites chunks out of people, he spits on people, he's tossed around 6'0 300lbs coworkers of his, he has a thing for pregnant woman so if you're pregnant he's going for you first. Her property doesn't even have anything to protect them really. They can't attack back either. The best part of all this is, is that because he is still a human being they have no choice they have to take him out. So he gets trips to the grocery store and shit, knowing he could attack anyone there at anytime. He also routinely attacks them while they're driving him to his appointments and they're not allowed to retain him in anyway in the vehicle to prevent it. Another friend I have at a different property gets attacked all day by the people there as well. It isn't just "the parents" fault here, like yes they should of gotten him help but like I said, where I live it's extremely easy to give up and fall through the cracks unless you REALLY want to get better. Shouldn't have to fight constantly to even get the help us loons need.

[@DemonSoul89420]

Tbh if I actually sat here and gave every example why the mental health system is garbage we'd be here all day. So I'll leave it with this one because I truly feel like it sums it up: My best friend went to the hospital for help, she was suicidal. Had a history of it, and cutting to the point you could see the tendons in her arms the one episode she had. She got sent home (?) And she went home and killed herself. My friend is dead in her 30s, because they didn't help her.

[@vip5hawol]

"lack of rizz" lmao nearly spit out my coffee

[@vesla266]

I am looking forward to that day when we all talk about mental problems as easily as we talk about flu or fever. There's no shame in having psychological problems, we just need to talk about it!! Merry Christmas everyone 🎁🎄🧑‍🎄

[@caitlynreardon5422]

I remember this happening when I was a kid. Now as an adult I always make sure that I’m always close to an exit when I go to the movies. I still feel somewhat on edge years later.

[@apinyapantages496]

i was there that night, the next theatre over. my heart still breaks. this was a hard watch but very important. thank you.

[@TheJuseman]

I live very close to where this happened. My brother sister and I, all saw the midnight showing that night in 3 separate theatres. We are all incredibly lucky none of us were there that night.

[@cherylh5706]

Watching this video brings it all back and I'm fighting back tears. I remember hearing all of the sirens, so many, for so long and wondered what was going on. It wasn't until a few hours later when I awoke from sleep that the news spelled out the horrible truth about what happened. Even though they've changed the name of the theater and I go to the Aurora Mall often, I'll never go back to that theater and no matter what movie I go see now, I observe everyone as closely as I can. Thanks for your chilling video. I learned a few things that not even the local news told in detail.

[@btrueeth]

I wonder, with his parents being aware of family history with mental health, with the mother being a practicing medical professional, how they didn't see he had problems? I wonder if the parents were in denial. After that shooting, I avoided large crowds for sometime.

[@RR-on4sk]

Probably denial and some issues of their own.

[@EssenceofCoils]

Yes! This really upset me. You're a medical professional with a family history of mental issues. You're watching your son come unglued, and you do NOTHING?! Make it make sense😠!

[@esteemedmortal5917]

We see others with two eyes, but ourselves and our loved ones with only one eye

[@SMELLGOODER]

Your channel is awesome. Even though I've heard about nearly every situation that you cover in your videos... It's your delivery. My wife likes your soothing English accent. I'm like "honey, my voice is soothing, right?" And then by default, she points out my Appalachian twang...... and I really don't have a rebuttal. Thanks, my dude!!

[@CoffeehouseCrime]

haha, thank you so much man!

[@grmpEqweer]

@@CoffeehouseCrimeWait, you aren't Australian?!? I DEMAND A REFUND!😂

[@JamieReynolds89]

You genuinely thought he was Australian??@@grmpEqweer

[@schrisdellopoulos9244]

Hahaha! Hillbilly changed it to "English."

[@thegreencat9947]

Fairdinkum!

[@tonixo8798]

This was a hard one to watch without crying. As he and many others I suffer with mental health and it’s scary what it can push people to do. May all the victims rest in peace 🕊️

[@durdanakhan224]

THANK YOU SO MUCH, We do so appreciate your work.

[@haileddaffodil9546]

This case is one that has always sat with me. I have no personal connection to it but it was the first mass shooting case I remember being swarmed with conspiracy theories and sort of set the standard that after every shooting there would be a massive wave of "this is a hoax, its a false flag, its this, that or the other". It makes me sick to my stomach every time. For some reasons it's easier for some Americans to twist facts, bend the truth or completely ignore it rather than accept we are failing in regards to mental health. It's sad, it's terrifying and in the end it's an insult to those who died and their loved ones left behind.

[@obfuscatethecode5696]

False flag conspiracy theories and those who profit from it (Alex Jones) are vile. So greedy.

[@schrisdellopoulos9244]

Don't hang around with the MAGA Republicans in your life. 😊

[@GraveYardShif7]

What it comes down to is We Americans and Canadians (Westerners) lack empathy for each other, even more so now with Social Media. I think this and the Diminishment of our Education and Medical System is the very core of the problem, and no one cares about it until it effects them directly. Canadians and Americans today are more fearful, uneducated and ignorant now then they were 25 years ago. We generally treat the mentally ill like we treat UFO's, The Government or other groups of people.. a threat.

[@ice9594]

Yes, agreed. America is failing its mentally ill terribly. But don't be misled by normalcy bias...some events are real, but many ARE government sponsored. I've studied mass sh**tings & the history of CIA/MK Ultra (begun in the 1950s by the CIA). For years a key objectives of the Deep State traitors that have infiltrated the US government has been to take away g*ns from America, the last bastion of freedom. Toward that goal, the Executive Branch, CIA & FBI have worked together to implement dozens of sh**tings in an attempt to justify, to upset & sway the people to accept disarmament. They generally use single males with mental issues...patsies. They program them & arm them. Usually they end up de*d (so they tell no tales). Their handlers create the scenario, then switch their hit man on when it's time. It's no theory; it's a conspiracy REALITY. There are also sometimes exercises made to look very real through media reporting, where people are not actually k*lled, such as the Boston B*mbing & S*ndy H**k. (Alex was right.) Don't tell me I'm wrong. I've seen/read too much proof & spent 100s of hours deciphering the truth. Those responsible are the same demons that brought us 9/11 and the "safe & effective." Americans need to wake up to the evil that's destroying the country from within.

[@tearainey1]

I believe a lot of the reasoning for conspiracy theories to whip up lies in the fact that the gun control debate always picks up after mass shootings. Alex Jones famously started the trend to call mass shootings false flags orchestrated by shadow groups (usually democrats are blamed since generally that political isle is the most vocal for gun control) and so it becomes this deeply entrenched political battlefield. I also think calling a mass shooting a conspiracy is a way for those people to take a step back from responsibility, instead of asking "could this be avoided with different legislation?" the question becomes a statement of "They're coming for our rights, our guns, our freedom!" but usually the 'they' is some faceless group or, in some cases (only one I can name of the top of my head, i.e. Alex Jones) the families/parents are blamed as the 'false flag operators'. Instead of facing the real issues at hand, i.e. gun access, mental health awareness and treatment, legal steps, the conversation is just people clutching their conspiracies and guns and shouting that they're being infringed upon and the government better not dare to step out of line to tighten gun control. It muddies the waters to having real, logical, and level-headed debates on how to address and limit these sorts of tragedies from occurring again. I don't think anyone can deny that America has a problem when it comes to gun violence, the numbers speak for themselves. America also has a mental health issue (much like all countries in today's day and age). Both issues are by and large ignored at every level of government because they don't make for the best political battlegrounds. But, I've ranted long enough. I just pray to whatever gods may listen that change can come about sooner rather than later, and that the change will trend in a positive direction for all.

[@brandonpeterson8442]

Still remember this from when I was in middle school. This story really opened my eyes to how dark the world can be. R.I.P. to everyone who lost their lives to this tragedy and I hope those who survived have been able to recover not only physically but mentally as well.

[@lordslothrop365]

One of your best. Very moving and well done.

[@Multiversal_Productions]

This was the first case that I ever saw, I had never seen news or anything like that until I was 12, saw a newspaper on my mum's desk and saw the "Batman Killer" headline, being a batman fan, I read it only to just be horrified. it did spark something in me from a younger age to not hide away from the true crime stories that happen in the world. Happy to know you've covered the case!

[@ponche_pilate]

The girl who lived next to James' apartment was very, very lucky. If she had pushed the door, the bomb would have probably killed her and some other residents

[@Novelist1029]

I remember going to the midnight premier in my state and then coming home to seeing this on the news. I also learned that a classmate of my wife was one of the many injured by James Holmes. She’s okay now and doesn’t remember the incident despite being shot in the head. This guy is an absolute monster and I’m glad he will never hurt anyone ever again.

[@thedesensitizedsympathizer5307]

He's not a monster. His mental illness corrupted his perception of reality.

[@Novelist1029]

@@thedesensitizedsympathizer5307 Oh I disagree. He originally planned to shoot up an airport but didn’t want to be associated with terrorism. He was cognitive enough to know what he was doing was heinous. Did he have mental illness of course but this man had every intention of hurting people and he picked a place where people would be most vulnerable, a movie theater. That makes him a monster.

[@mekabare]

@@Novelist1029No, makes him a disturbed human.

[@marymullings3823]

You did a stellar job covering this case Adrian. I hope their daughter doesn't have any issues. Stay safe and give a hug to Nero❤

[@forest9536]

I grew up in this town, I was a kid when this happened it was so sad. I still can’t go to that theater or the mall next too it. Thank you for this in depth coverage on it

[@ThePastelCowgirl]

I remember when this happened, and admittedly I sometimes have sudden moments of fear when in a crowded movie theater.

[@carlaemerson1195]

Wow I remember this one . Thank you for the respect you show for the victims ❤

[@2sons1lv]

Well said ❤

[@canuck728]

your the best ! thank you for your narration, always done with class. 👍👍😊😊

[@carolfromalbertacanada]

🇨🇦Alberta

[@jimhenderson387]

Excellent presentation of this horrific event. Very good work.

[@kelliaiello3361]

Wow. As someone that struggles with mental health this has me so torn. The pages of "why?". He was struggling so much, not that it makes his actions ok. It's just sad all around.

[@PoppyHarlow1350]

Hiyas, Adrian! I don't usually comment, but I watch your videos all the time, and I adore you. This was so horrific and tragic. A friend of mine had plans to be at this theater that night. His friend changed locations at the last minute. When he told me that the next day, I had chills from head to toe. His friend changing plans may well have saved both of their lives.

[@GBoz94]

Adrian, thanks so much for making these videos so thorough and digging deep into the past and personalities of the murders. It allows us to really understand the full story. On a second note, I reckon if his dr spoke out, the police or his family probably wouldn’t be able to do much because he did not want to be helped by that point.

[@MrDo0bie]

Awesome, I couldn't find any earlier uploaded video's of James Holmes. Very content creative.

[@toyakasmir]

What’s crazy about this is I have a friend who just got back from deployment and narrowly missed this monster. He was in another showing and heard the gunfire and was instructed to leave immediately.

[@MoAtreides]

That’s the crazy part ? A friend of yours heard the commotion?

[@poopyfartballs5363]

​@@MoAtreidesanything for attention hun

[@ashtontupper]

This case has made me deathly afraid of movie theaters since it happened. I used to love going and now I only go to the theater maybe once every few years and when I do, I'm on the verge of a panic attack the whole time :C

[@gaylegoodman9097]

My father was a Physicist, and so my sister was extremely intelligent too, and she earned her a master’s degree in her field. She would of gotten a PhD, if she had to stop due to health reasons. That being said, she would of known, along with me, would know that the next step isn’t asking people if their children will be their son’s friend, exasperating the problem. The next step, if your child, especially if they reach out to you, saying something that troubles him this much at ages 11-12, would be to immediately go to a therapist & family counseling. Not trying to shame the parents, but my son is just 6 months older than James Holmes, and there was a lot of information available regarding these topics. If only they would of researched mental health, as much as they did in their own professions, maybe some of this would of been addressed earlier.

[@connoroleary591]

Agree. It can't have done him any good that his mother was trawling the neighbourhood looking for friends for him. Therapy certainly, also, for "privileged" children, holidays spent in the developing world, can give them perspective and to see how children can be happy with very little. When you start thinking about others, you are no longer the focus of your own thoughts.

[@Lizziguin]

I remember this vividly when I saw it on the news everywhere. It honestly sounds like this could more than likely have been prevented if the parents had gotten the help their son desperately needed in the beginning. I couldn't imagine not getting the help I needed as a kid. I'm not sure if I would have turned out to be a good person. My parents are pharmacists and even they knew and understood the benefits of going to therapy and of course definitely understood the importance of medication when it is needed. They even took me to a neurologist as a kid. I wish the doctor had been able to do a forced commitment to a mental facility but I'm guessing the laws there don't allow it. His parents were more than capable to afford to do so for their son. So I do have sympathy for him at least when it comes to his family not helping him when he needed it most. His parents truly failed him and it honestly makes me pretty mad that they didn't do anything. That will never excuse the behavior though and my heart goes out to all those who were affected by this tragedy and I pray that the families find some peace one day.

[@anastazjakhrul7220]

I offer my condolences to all the dead and injured. Thank Coffeehouse Crime for covering these topics, they are hard, but they give a lot of reasons to think about how people think, why they make crimes/murders or hurts others.

[@AwkwaBen]

I remember the morning after this happened. I got so many texts asking if I was okay and alive since I'd shown interest in going to a midnight showing of this movie, and I lived really close to Aurora at the time. It's wild to think I was so distraught by this event, but have since become somewhat jaded to all of the mass shootings going on lately. Conversations about gun control happen with stuff like this, but of course nothing is ever done.

[@virginiaariaz4214]

Hello, I do remember that day I live very near that area. I still can’t go into a a any theaters because of that event. I do also want to thank you for always putting the victims first and reminding us that they are to be respected and remember. No one else does that on KZbin Thank you for that. ❤

[@aynako_am96]

My high school friends were there that night...I remember waking up to the news and my stomach just dropping. Our Aurora community still isn't the same and the tumultuous case has brought up the pain all over again. Thank you for homoring the victims and their families.

[@hekiwhakato2425]

I was visiting my aunt in Denver at that time and we considered going to that very midnight showing. I'm so thankful we didn't. We went to the candlelight vigil in Aurora the following day. It was so sad.