Columbus police have expressed deep concern about a recent string of shootings involving juveniles and young adults.
The most recent was a late-night party advertised on social media, which turned deadly early Friday morning when shots rang out at 2:40 a.m. on Wilson Avenue.
Police reported that hundreds of young people attended the event, which resulted in six people being shot, including a teenager who died.
How neighbors reacted to the July 4 shooting
Neighbors expressed their sorrow over the violence.
“It’s such a sad situation,” remarked India Riley, a neighbour.
This incident occurred weeks after another deadly shooting near the Scioto Mile, in which six teenagers were shot and one died.
Columbus police say parents should be vigilant
In response, Columbus police issued a statement urging parents and guardians to be vigilant.
“Know who your kids are with. Know where they’re going. We need your help to avoid the next tragedy. “The safety of young people cannot be solely the responsibility of police officers,” the statement read.
Neighbours echoed the call to action.
“They need to do something. “Play baseball or football, but don’t shoot a gun at your friends,” one resident advised.
Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children: Peace over violence
Just hours before the latest shooting, members of Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children were at the Red, White & Boom event, encouraging young people to choose peace over violence.
The organisation later issued a statement saying, “We awoke devastated by the news of yet another tragedy.” Our children should be home safely by the city curfew.”
Columbus police are asking anyone with information about the shooting to call the Columbus Police Homicide Unit (614-645-4730) or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers (614-461-TIPS), which accepts anonymous tips.
