Victim Killed in North Columbus Shooting Identified as 17-Year-Old Ariyaun Burton
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A tragic act of gun violence claimed the life of a teenager early Sunday morning in north Columbus. The Columbus Division of Police has identified the victim as 17-year-old Ariyaun Burton. The shooting, which also injured another individual, took place in the early hours of May 4 and has left a community shaken and seeking answers.
Authorities responded to a call just before 4 a.m. in the 5300 block of Roche Place, near Sinclair Road. According to a dispatcher from the city’s public safety department, the initial 911 call was placed by a Lyft driver who reported that both he and his passenger had been shot. In an effort to seek help, the driver managed to pull into a nearby Sheetz gas station, located in the 900 block of East Dublin-Granville Road.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, and both individuals were transported to Riverside Methodist Hospital. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Ariyaun Burton succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital. The other victim, who has not been publicly identified, is expected to survive.
As of now, police have not released information regarding any suspects, and the circumstances leading up to the shooting remain under investigation. No arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The death of Ariyaun Burton adds to the growing concern over youth violence in Columbus. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and community members who described Ariyaun as a young man with potential and dreams for the future. Social media platforms have been filled with tributes, photos, and expressions of heartbreak from those who knew him.
Community leaders are once again calling for stronger action to address the underlying causes of violence in the city. Efforts to promote youth engagement, mental health resources, and safer neighborhoods are being emphasized in the wake of this latest tragedy.
The Columbus Division of Police is continuing its investigation and asks that anyone with information about the shooting contact the Homicide Unit or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
As the investigation unfolds, the city mourns the loss of yet another young life, with hopes that justice will be served and that meaningful steps will be taken to prevent future violence.