A Columbus teen was injured in a drive-by shooting Thursday night.
Christopher Easterwood, 19, of 705 Military Road in Columbus, was shot in the hand outside his residence.
The Columbus Police Department said Easterwood was sitting outside his residence near Military Road and Seventh Avenue North with friends at approximately 8:30 p.m., when shots were fired from a dark-colored pickup truck with several black male passengers inside.
Several rounds were fired from what is believed to be a .22 caliber weapon.
Witnesses at the scene said the truck was parked at a service station across the street from Easterwood”s residence before pulling up to the curb and firing into the group.
Easterwood was struck as he attempted to dodge the gunfire. He was treated and released from Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle. No other injuries were reported.
According to police officers at the scene, Easterwood is a witness against gang members for an upcoming trial, and had received threats by text message. Officials contacted this morning would not confirm a gang connection in the incident.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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