COLUMBUS, Ohio — A night of celebration turned into tragedy early Friday morning when a shooting broke out at a party hosted at an Airbnb in east Columbus, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers responded to multiple reports of gunfire around East Livingston Avenue and Wilson Avenue in the Old Oaks neighborhood, where a party was taking place at a short-term rental property.
Investigators say that an altercation escalated during the gathering, resulting in multiple shots fired inside or near the residence. First responders arrived at the chaotic scene and found multiple gunshot victims.
At least three people were transported to nearby hospitals. One of the victims, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead after arriving at the hospital. The conditions of the remaining victims have not been disclosed at this time.
Police have not confirmed whether any arrests have been made or if there is an active search for a suspect. Authorities are continuing to interview witnesses and review evidence, including surveillance footage, to determine the events that led up to the violence.
The Airbnb property has been cordoned off as police conduct a thorough investigation. Neighbors in the typically quiet residential area expressed shock at the violence.
“It’s heartbreaking to wake up to something like this in your neighborhood,” one resident said. “These are young people with their whole lives ahead of them.”
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the Columbus Police Homicide Unit or submit tips anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
This incident adds to a growing number of shootings in the city this year and highlights continued concerns over safety and gun violence at large gatherings.
More information will be released as the investigation develops.
