Columbus police on Tuesday, Feb. 24, released images of four people they want to question in a West Side shooting that killed a 31-year-old man on Jan. 27. Investigators said the individuals are considered armed and dangerous and urged residents not to approach them. The shooting occurred in the 500 block of South Richardson Avenue.
Police Detail The January Homicide
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers were dispatched to the 500 block of S. Richardson Ave. at about 3:18 p.m. on Jan. 27 and found a man suffering from gunshot wounds. The press release identifies the victim as James C. Pettigrew Jr., 31, and says he was taken to Grant Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The motive and perpetrator remain unknown. Homicide detectives opened an investigation and notified next of kin.
Police Seek Help Identifying Four People
Detectives released photos they hope will lead to identifications and described the people as persons of interest who should be treated as armed and dangerous if seen. According to CW Columbus, police warned the public to call 911 rather than approach the subjects and named Detective O'Connor as the lead investigator, with Detective Radich assisting. The station's report includes the images police distributed to the public.
How To Pass Tips
Police asked anyone with information to call the Columbus Police Homicide Unit at (614) 645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477), per the city release. The incident is recorded as report number 260062462 in Zone 3, Precinct 19, and investigators said they are continuing to work leads. Authorities reiterated that sightings should be reported to 911 immediately and that suspects should not be confronted.
The images were released on Feb. 24, 2026, as detectives continue to pursue leads in the Jan. 27 killing, and police said tips could be critical to identifying those involved. Anyone who recognizes the people in the photos is asked to contact investigators or use Crime Stoppers to submit anonymous information, according to CW Columbus.
