A security guard working outside the Omar Ibn El-Khattab Mosque on Riverview Drive was shot yesterday evening after what Columbus police say started as a dispute over tow-truck access. The guard, who serves as the mosque’s on-site security, was hit in the shoulder and taken to Riverside Methodist Hospital, where officials described his condition as stable. Officers stayed at the scene into the evening as detectives collected evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Police: Tow-Truck Dispute Escalated To Shooting
Columbus police were called after a physical confrontation broke out between the security guard and a tow-truck driver while the guard was directing traffic, according to 10TV. Witnesses told the station that a driver from a second tow truck pulled out a firearm and shot the guard in the shoulder. Columbus police spokesman Sgt. James Fuqua confirmed the injury and the transport to Riverside Methodist Hospital, and detectives with the department are investigating the shooting.
Mosque And Hospital Location Details
Masjid Omar, formally Omar Ibn El-Khattab Mosque, lists its address as 580 Riverview Drive on the mosque’s contact page. The mosque serves the OSU area and surrounding neighborhoods. Masjid Omar sits just north of campus-area housing and student traffic.
OhioHealth’s website lists Riverside Methodist Hospital at 3535 Olentangy River Road in Columbus. OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital is a regional facility where seriously injured patients from the area are commonly taken, including in cases like yesterday's shooting.
Investigation Still Active, Police Seek Tips
Columbus police say the shooting remains under investigation and have not said whether any arrests were made, as reported by 10TV. Officers are asking anyone who may have video or firsthand information from the scene to contact investigators.
Central Ohio Crime Stoppers also offers an anonymous tipline at 614-461-8477 for people who prefer to report information privately. Anyone with information is urged to call Columbus police or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 or submit a tip online at stopcrime.org. We will update this article as authorities release more information.
