Columbus police and first responders were called to the 800 block of Apex Road, just off River Road, after gunfire was reported around 10:08 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Officers and investigators found an injured male juvenile at the scene; he was transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional and pronounced dead at 10:49 p.m., Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan confirmed.
What investigators say
Investigators with the Columbus Police Department’s crime scene investigations division and violent crimes unit conducted an extensive on-scene probe. At least seven evidence markers were placed in the area as officers documented and collected material evidence. The department has described the incident as an active investigation; as of the latest update, no arrests or suspect identifications have been announced publicly.
“The investigation into the deadly shooting remains ongoing,” law enforcement officials said in a statement released with the case update.
Victim and community impact
The victim was later identified as 11-year-old Kadin Harris. The loss of a child in a neighborhood shooting intensified concern among residents, community leaders and local service providers about violence affecting young people in Columbus. The location — the 800 block of Apex Road, just off River Road — is part of a residential area where neighbors and families live close to one another.
- Date and time: July 8, 2026, shooting reported around 10:08 p.m.
- Location: 800 block of Apex Road, near River Road in Columbus
- Victim: Kadin Harris, 11, pronounced dead at 10:49 p.m. at Piedmont Columbus Regional
How to help or share information
Investigators have asked anyone with information to come forward. People with tips are asked to contact Cpl. Justin Doll at doll.justin@columbusga.org or by phone at 706-225-3161. Sources said callers may remain anonymous.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported shooting time | 10:08 p.m., July 8, 2026 |
| Pronounced dead | 10:49 p.m., Piedmont Columbus Regional |
| Evidence at scene | At least seven markers placed |
This loss reverberates across family networks and neighborhoods in Columbus. City and county agencies, community groups and faith leaders often respond to such tragedies with outreach and support; those resources may become available in the coming days. For now, police investigators continue to seek information that could help determine what happened that night and identify anyone responsible.
Anyone with knowledge of the incident or who may have been in the area is asked to contact Cpl. Doll at the email or phone number above. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
