Columbus police are searching for a suspect who opened fire in the Courtyard by Marriott on Thursday night, striking a water line in the ceiling and covering the hallway floor with water.
No one was hurt in the incident, which investigators believe began as a domestic dispute in the parking lot at about 8 p.m., according to a Columbus Police Department press release. The suspect, who the press release described as a black male, allegedly fired a gun into the air during the verbal altercation before the argument moved inside an upper-floor hallway. Witnesses told police he fired inside again, striking and breaking the water line which “caused even more confusion,” the release said.
The suspect had left the hotel by the time police arrived. Witnesses told investigators the argument involved multiple people.
Columbus Police Chief Fred Shelton told The Dispatch Saturday that investigators have identified the suspect, but did not release his name. The alleged shooter is expected to be charged with shooting into an occupied dwelling, which is a felony.
Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers at 800-530-7151.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 38 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.