COLUMBUS, Ga. — A significant police presence was reported Friday evening in several neighborhoods near Fort Benning Road as law enforcement responded to what officials described as an active crime scene.
Residents in the area said they noticed multiple police cruisers, unmarked vehicles, and tactical units converging on several blocks shortly after 6 p.m. Witnesses reported hearing sirens and seeing officers setting up perimeters along both residential and commercial stretches of the roadway.
Columbus police have not released specific details about the nature of the incident, but confirmed that officers were responding to an unfolding situation that required an increased law enforcement response. Authorities urged members of the public to avoid the affected areas while officers conducted their work.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are asking residents to remain clear of the immediate area,” one police spokesperson said Friday evening. “Our officers are actively investigating and working to ensure the safety of everyone in the community.”
Video posted on social media appeared to show heavily armed officers moving through parking lots and alleyways, while others directed traffic away from blocked streets. Several residents said officers went door-to-door in parts of the neighborhood, though police have not indicated whether they were searching for a suspect.
Emergency medical personnel were also spotted near the scene, though officials have not confirmed if there were any injuries connected to the incident.
The heightened activity caused concern among community members, many of whom gathered at a distance to watch as events unfolded. “It was scary to see so many police cars racing in at once,” one witness said. “You could tell something serious was happening.”
Local businesses in the Fort Benning Road corridor temporarily closed their doors for safety as the situation developed. Some establishments reported locking down until authorities gave the all-clear.
As of late Friday night, police had not provided an update on the cause of the heavy response or whether any arrests had been made. Investigators remained on scene well into the evening, gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses.
City officials said more information will be released once the situation is under control and facts can be confirmed. In the meantime, authorities emphasized that there is no indication of an ongoing threat beyond the immediate area.
