A late Saturday night confrontation outside a Short North nightclub ended with a security guard shot and rushed to the hospital, adding another jolt of gunfire to one of Columbus’ busiest entertainment corridors. The guard was reported in stable condition, and officers spent the night combing the area for a suspect. As of early Sunday, police had not announced any arrests.
Police Say Call Came In Around 10:30 p.m.
According to WSYX, officers were called to the 1000 block of North High Street just after 10:30 p.m. Saturday. Station reporting says staff at a nearby nightclub caught a man trying to break into a car, and that, when a security guard confronted him, the suspect shot the guard and ran off. WSYX adds that the guard was taken to a hospital in stable condition and that police told the public there was no danger at this time.
Witnesses Describe Chaotic Night Outside Club
Bystanders quickly took to a thread on Reddit’s r/Columbus, saying they heard multiple gunshots near the club and saw ambulances and several patrol cars rush in. One commenter wrote they were “right across the street” and that the shots sounded like they came from in front of or inside a spot referenced as Prive. Scanner chatter and social posts suggest witnesses on scene may have video, though police have not publicly released any footage.
Short North Safety Jitters Continue
The Short North has seen several high-profile late-night shootings and disturbances in recent years, prompting extra patrols and safety programs, as WOSU reported after a mass shooting in 2024. Local coverage has also tracked neighborhood policing efforts and the Short North Alliance’s ambassador patrols, which neighborhood groups say are part of ongoing attempts to keep the corridor safer for visitors and businesses, including a recent restroom stickup case.
Investigation Still Underway
Columbus police continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information to contact the department. No arrests have been made, and investigators have not released a suspect description, according to WSYX. Detectives say they are reviewing witness tips and any available video as they work to identify the shooter and determine a motive.
