A late Sunday night turned violent at the Leader Square Shopping Center on Petzinger Road in southeast Columbus, where one person was critically injured in a shooting, authorities said. The gunfire broke out around 11 p.m., and the victim was rushed from the scene in critical condition. Officers quickly taped off portions of the plaza as detectives worked into the early morning hours.
The shooting happened shortly before 11 p.m. at the shopping center, and police are still working to piece together what led up to the gunfire, according to WSYX. As of that report, officials had not released any information about suspects or arrests.
Petzinger Road Has Seen Multiple Incidents
The same stretch of Petzinger Road where Leader Square sits has been on officers’ radar in recent months. In February, a shooting on the 3400 block led to an arrest, according to a Petzinger Road shooting bust. Neighbors and business owners have told local outlets they are worried about recurring gun violence in parts of southeast Columbus.
City Is Expanding Its Non-Fatal Shooting Response
Against that backdrop, city officials have moved to strengthen follow-up after shootings by making a pilot Non-Fatal Shooting Team permanent and expanding it to another patrol zone, according to a City of Columbus press release. Officials say the move is part of a broader strategy to reduce gun violence and connect victims with services after incidents.
Police had not immediately released suspect descriptions or a possible motive, and the investigation remains active, according to WSYX. Authorities said they plan to provide updates as more information becomes available.
