Early Friday morning, gunfire erupted just off The Ohio State University campus, leaving a man wounded beside the McDonald's at North High Street and East 18th Avenue, near Mershon Auditorium. He was taken to a hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.
Columbus police said they are still trying to piece together what happened and, as of now, have not announced any suspects.
What Police And Witnesses Say
According to WSYX, the victim told officers he worked for DoorDash, although investigators have not confirmed that detail on their own. Officers found the man injured in the McDonald's parking lot, WSYX reports, and he was transported to a local hospital, where officials described his condition as stable.
Police have released few other details so far as detectives continue their work. For now, key questions remain wide open, including what led up to the shooting and who pulled the trigger.
Campus Safety Context
The incident adds to a stretch of tense months in and around the University District. In February, an off-campus shooting left one person wounded and led to multiple detentions, The Lantern reported.
Ohio State's Department of Public Safety has said it is working with city partners to respond to violent incidents and to step up patrols and public-safety messaging near North High Street, according to Ohio State. The steady drumbeat of reports has left many students and nearby residents on edge as authorities search for ways to cut down on gunfire in the campus area.
How To Help
Columbus police are investigating the shooting and are asking anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters can contact the Columbus Division of Police non-emergency line at (614) 645-4545 or reach Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-8477, as listed on the city's police contact page. Call 911 in an emergency.
Investigators also want anyone who has video or photos from around High Street and 18th Avenue around the time of the shooting to preserve that material and share it with detectives if it could serve as evidence.
This story will be updated as police release more information and as the investigation moves forward. Authorities are expected to provide additional details when they become available.
