Gunman In 2001 Santana High School Shooting Up For Parole

SANTEE, CA — The gunman in the 2001 Santana High School shooting is due for a parole hearing in September, and victims of the mass shooting can participate, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office announced.

Charles "Andy" Williams killed two students and wounded 13 others when he opened fire at the Santee school on March 5, 2001.

Williams was sentenced to 50 years to life in prison in June 2002. A change in state law, however, altered how juveniles tried as adults come up for parole.

The Youthful Offender Parole law means that juveniles who receive life sentences have a chance at parole no later than 25 years into their sentences.

Williams, who was 15 at the time of the school shooting, is scheduled for a Sept. 10 parole hearing that will be held via video conference. Victims who are interested in attending the hearing must contact the Parole Board by Aug. 26.

"Having victim voices at hearings like this are an extremely important part of the process," San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said in a statement. "This particular crime has hundreds of victims associated with it and it's important to us that victims are aware of their rights under the law to participate in the parole hearing if they wish to do so."

Victims, family members, supporters or designated representatives may appear and participate in the hearing by phone or videoconference. Those who would like to attend can notify the Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services at 1-877-256-6877 or [email protected].