COLUMBUS Authorities are investigating an overnight shooting in East Columbus that left a teenager injured just steps away from a local high school. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, April 2, marking a violent start to the month for the neighborhood.
The Incident 12:50 a.m. Gunfire
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers were dispatched to the intersection of Mayfair Boulevard and Dale Avenue at approximately 12:50 a.m. following reports of shots fired.
Upon arrival, responders located a teenage victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The location is approximately one block from Eastmoor Academy, a focal point of the East Columbus community.
Victim Status and Transport
The teen was quickly treated at the scene and rushed to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Hospital staff and police officials confirmed later Thursday morning that the victim is currently in stable condition.
Investigation Ongoing
As of 7:30 a.m. Thursday, the Columbus Police Homicide and Assault units remain in the preliminary stages of their investigation.
No descriptions of suspects or vehicles have been released to the public.
It remains unclear what led to the shooting or if the victim was targeted.
No arrests have been made at this time.
The shooting adds to a heavy week for the Eastmoor area, which recently saw hundreds of residents gather to honor Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, an Eastmoor Academy alumnus. The proximity of the gunfire to the school grounds is expected to prompt increased police presence in the area during school hours today.
Anyone with information regarding this shooting is urged to contact the Columbus Police Assault Squad at (614) 645-4141 or provide an anonymous tip through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).