Columbus Drive-By Shooting Claims Life of 30-Year-Old Demetrius Wilkerson
COLUMBUS, GA — November 8, 2025: The Columbus community is reeling after a tragic drive-by shooting outside the Azalea Apartments complex claimed the life of 30-year-old Demetrius Wilkerson on Friday night. The senseless act of violence occurred just after 9:45 p.m. and has left family, friends, and neighbors mourning the loss of a man described as “gentle, humble, and full of life.”
The Location and Incident
The shooting took place at the Azalea Apartments, located off North Lumpkin Road, a residential area in north Columbus that has experienced occasional gun-related incidents over the years. According to preliminary reports from the Columbus Police Department (CPD), officers were dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire.
Upon arrival, officers found Demetrius Wilkerson seated in the passenger seat of a dark-colored sedan, suffering from at least one gunshot wound. The driver of the vehicle, whose name has not been released, immediately called for help after the shots were fired. Emergency medical responders from Muscogee County EMS rushed to the scene and transported Wilkerson to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased despite extensive lifesaving efforts.
What Happened
According to investigators, Wilkerson and the driver were parked outside the apartment complex when another vehicle approached and opened fire. Witnesses described hearing a series of rapid gunshots followed by screeching tires as the suspect’s vehicle sped away from the scene. Police have not released details about the make or model of the suspect’s car but confirmed that surveillance footage from the complex and nearby businesses is being reviewed.
Detectives believe Wilkerson was the intended target, though a motive remains under investigation. The shooting appears to have been targeted rather than random, and authorities are working to determine whether it was related to a previous altercation or ongoing dispute.
The Victim: Demetrius Wilkerson
Demetrius Wilkerson, 30, was a lifelong resident of Columbus, known for his warm personality, dedication to family, and love for music. Friends described him as a “quiet soul” who stayed out of trouble and often helped others in the community. He was reportedly visiting a friend at the Azalea Apartments when the shooting occurred.
Wilkerson’s cousin, Tina Matthews, spoke through tears about the loss. “Demetrius was more than family — he was our light. He didn’t deserve this. He was just sitting in the car, minding his business.”
Those who knew him said he worked part-time in local construction and was saving money to start a small landscaping business. His death has left family members devastated and demanding justice.
Police Investigation
The Columbus Police Department’s Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation. Officers canvassed the area late into the night, collecting shell casings and interviewing witnesses. Authorities have confirmed that multiple rounds were fired from the suspect’s vehicle, indicating the use of a semi-automatic weapon.
Lieutenant Bryan Douglas, the lead investigator, stated, “This was a targeted and deliberate act of violence. We are following multiple leads and reviewing surveillance footage to identify the vehicle and those responsible. We urge anyone with information to come forward — even the smallest detail could help bring justice to Demetrius’s family.”
Community Reaction
The news of Wilkerson’s passing has hit the Columbus community hard. Residents of the Azalea Apartments expressed fear and frustration, saying violence has increased in the area in recent months. A small memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes has since formed near the parking lot where the shooting occurred.
Local pastor Reverend Joseph Barnes, who leads a nearby church, called for peace and unity. “We can’t keep losing our young men to gunfire. Demetrius’s life mattered. His death is a call for us to step up and protect one another,” he said.
City officials echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the need for community cooperation with law enforcement. The Columbus Police Department has also announced plans to increase patrols in high-crime areas over the coming weeks.
Remembering Demetrius
Friends and family plan to hold a candlelight vigil on Sunday evening at Lakebottom Park to honor Demetrius’s memory. Organizers say the event will serve as both a tribute and a message against gun violence. “We want to remember who he was — not how he passed,” said his close friend Marcus Reid. “He had dreams, plans, and love for everyone around him.”
Ongoing Investigation
As of Saturday morning, no arrests have been made. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the CPD Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers, where tips can remain anonymous.
For now, the Columbus community mourns the life of Demetrius Wilkerson, a man whose future was tragically taken away in a moment of senseless violence. His passing serves as a painful reminder of the ongoing struggle against gun violence that continues to affect families across Georgia.
