ARREST MADE | Suspect in Custody for Midday Murder in East Columbus
A suspect has been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred during broad daylight on Saturday in East Columbus, bringing some measure of relief to a community rattled by the violent incident. According to jail records and confirmation from local law enforcement, the individual now in custody is believed to be directly responsible for the murder that unfolded in the middle of the day, in plain view of bystanders.
The incident happened just after noon on Saturday in a residential area near East Livingston Avenue and South Hamilton Road. Residents reported hearing multiple gunshots ring out, followed by screams and a rush of police sirens. When officers from the Columbus Division of Police arrived at the scene, they discovered a man lying unresponsive on the sidewalk, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite life-saving efforts by emergency responders, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, but authorities described him as an adult male, believed to be in his 30s. Witnesses told police that the shooting appeared to be targeted, rather than random, and that the gunman fled on foot shortly after the shots were fired.
Thanks to swift investigative work and community cooperation, police were able to identify a suspect within hours. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses and eyewitness accounts played a crucial role in pinpointing the individual. By Saturday evening, officers had taken the suspect into custody without incident. Jail records show the suspect has been booked on a preliminary charge of murder and is being held at the Franklin County Jail pending a formal arraignment.
As the investigation moves forward, detectives are continuing to gather evidence and are working to establish a motive. At this time, police have not disclosed the nature of the relationship between the suspect and the victim, if any, though early indicators suggest the two may have had prior contact.
“This kind of violence is completely unacceptable,” said Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant in a brief statement. “But thanks to quick and thorough police work and support from the public, we have a suspect in custody. We will continue our efforts to ensure that justice is served.”
Neighbors in the area where the shooting took place expressed a mixture of relief and unease. While many are grateful for the rapid arrest, they say the midday nature of the murder — happening in broad daylight in a busy residential corridor — is deeply troubling.
“It’s scary,” said one nearby resident. “It’s like nowhere is safe anymore. We heard the shots and looked out the window, and there was a man lying there. In the middle of the day. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
The incident marks yet another addition to a growing number of homicides in Columbus this year. City officials and community activists continue to call for action, including expanded outreach programs, more resources for youth, and stronger gun violence prevention initiatives.
As the suspect awaits his first court appearance, police urge anyone who may have additional information about the shooting to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or submit tips anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.
The investigation remains active and ongoing