A late-night drive on Columbus' southeast side turned into a scare for five people on Saturday when gunfire hit a car carrying four juveniles and an adult driver on Petzinger Road, according to police. Officers were called around 11:45 p.m. to the 3700 block, where they found the vehicle and its shaken occupants. The driver suffered minor injuries from shattered glass and was treated at the scene. The four juveniles were not physically hurt.
Police response and investigation
Detectives with the Columbus Division of Police stayed on scene through the night and have opened an active investigation, as reported by WSYX/ABC6. Officers confirmed the car was occupied by an adult driver and four juveniles when the shots were fired. The driver was treated for injuries caused by flying glass, and officers said the young passengers were not injured.
Investigators have not announced any arrests. They are still working to determine whether the car was specifically targeted or if the gunfire involved stray rounds.
Police ask for tips
Detectives are asking anyone who saw or heard anything to contact Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 or submit a tip online, according to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers. For non-emergency reports or to speak with an officer, residents can call the Columbus Division of Police non-emergency line at (614) 645-4545, per the City of Columbus.
Petzinger Road context
Hoodline previously reported a separate Feb. 23 shooting on the 3400 block of Petzinger Road that led to a 57-year-old woman being charged, underscoring other recent incidents along the corridor. In that earlier case, investigators also urged witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers while the case remained under review.
The latest Petzinger Road investigation remains active, and Columbus police say they will release more information as it becomes available, per WSYX/ABC6. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to reach out to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers or the police non-emergency line.
