ARREST MADE | Suspect in Custody After Deadly Saturday Afternoon Shooting in South Columbus
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of a suspect in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred late Saturday afternoon in South Columbus. According to newly released jail records, the individual was taken into custody shortly after the incident and is currently being held on a preliminary charge of murder as the investigation into the violent crime continues.
The shooting unfolded just before 5:00 p.m. on Saturday in a residential neighborhood near the intersection of Parsons Avenue and Reeb Avenue. Columbus Division of Police officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male victim lying on the ground with at least one gunshot wound. Paramedics responded quickly, but despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have not yet publicly released the identity of the victim, pending notification of next of kin, but described him as a man in his early 30s. The deadly encounter reportedly occurred in front of several witnesses, and the area was immediately cordoned off as crime scene investigators collected evidence and interviewed residents.
According to police, initial leads and surveillance footage helped investigators swiftly identify a suspect believed to have fled the scene on foot. Officers launched a targeted manhunt within the surrounding area, and within hours, the suspect was located and arrested without further incident. The suspect’s name and booking information have since appeared in the Franklin County Jail roster, indicating a formal charge of murder and pending arraignment.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive behind the shooting, but sources close to the investigation suggest that the victim and suspect may have had a personal dispute that escalated into violence. Detectives are working to confirm the nature of their relationship and whether the shooting was premeditated.
“This type of violence is devastating for families and communities,” said a spokesperson for the Columbus Division of Police. “But thanks to rapid and coordinated police work, we have a suspect in custody, and our investigation is making significant progress. We remain committed to pursuing justice for the victim and his loved ones.”
Residents of the South Columbus neighborhood where the crime occurred expressed a mix of shock, fear, and frustration in the aftermath of the incident. Many described hearing the gunshots and then seeing first responders rushing to the scene. For some, the shooting is another grim reminder of the ongoing struggle with violent crime in their area.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said one neighbor. “There were kids outside playing just minutes before the shots were fired. This could have been even worse. We need something to change. This is happening too often.”
City officials have recently renewed calls for stronger community safety initiatives and gun violence prevention programs amid a troubling rise in shootings and homicides. Columbus has seen a growing number of fatal incidents in recent months, prompting increased law enforcement efforts and community outreach campaigns.
The suspect is expected to appear in court early this week for a preliminary hearing. Meanwhile, police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or submit tips anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of another life to senseless violence, while authorities press forward in their pursuit of justice and answers.