Columbus Drive-By Shooting Claims Life of 30-Year-Old Demetrius Wilkerson Friday Night
COLUMBUS, GA — November 8, 2025: The city of Columbus is mourning the loss of 30-year-old Demetrius Wilkerson, who tragically lost his life in a drive-by shooting late Friday night outside the Azalea Apartments complex. The devastating incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. and has left the community shaken, as police continue their search for those responsible.
The Location and Incident
The fatal shooting took place at the Azalea Apartments, a residential community located along North Lumpkin Road, an area known for its quiet atmosphere but occasionally marred by gun-related violence. According to the Columbus Police Department (CPD), officers responded to the complex after multiple 911 calls reported gunfire and a possible shooting victim inside a parked vehicle.
When officers arrived, they discovered Demetrius Wilkerson seated in the passenger side of a dark-colored sedan, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedics from Muscogee County EMS rendered aid and transported him to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased a short time later despite emergency medical intervention.
Police say Wilkerson and the vehicle’s driver, whose name has not been released, were sitting in the car outside the apartment complex when another vehicle approached and opened fire. The suspect’s car sped away immediately after the shooting, heading northbound on Lumpkin Road.
The Victim: Demetrius Wilkerson
Demetrius Wilkerson, 30, was a lifelong resident of Columbus and a man known by friends and neighbors for his kindness, humor, and calm demeanor. Family members described him as someone who “always put others first” and “had a big heart for everyone he met.”
Wilkerson worked part-time in construction and was pursuing his dream of starting a small auto-detailing business. Those close to him said he was focused on building a better life and providing for his family. “Demetrius was trying to do everything right,” said his cousin Marcus Hall. “He wasn’t perfect, but he wanted peace and happiness. He didn’t deserve what happened.”
Friends gathered Saturday morning outside the Azalea Apartments, leaving candles, flowers, and handwritten notes at the scene. Many remembered him for his easygoing personality and his love for music and family. “He made people laugh even when times were tough,” said family friend Tia Carter. “Now that laughter is gone, and we’re left with silence.”
The Investigation
Detectives from the Columbus Police Department Homicide Unit are leading the investigation. Early evidence indicates the shooting was targeted, though the motive remains unclear. Officers recovered several shell casings at the scene, believed to have been fired from a high-caliber weapon.
Lieutenant Bryan Douglas, the lead investigator, confirmed that surveillance footage from nearby apartment cameras is being reviewed. “We’re working diligently to identify the vehicle and suspects involved,” Douglas stated. “Anyone who was in the area around 9:45 p.m. and may have seen or heard anything is urged to come forward.”
As of Saturday afternoon, police had not announced any arrests but confirmed that multiple leads were being pursued. They are also coordinating with Crime Stoppers to encourage anonymous tips from the public.
Community and Official Reactions
The Columbus community has been deeply affected by Wilkerson’s passing. Residents of the Azalea Apartments expressed both fear and frustration, saying that recent months have seen an increase in gunfire in their neighborhood. Many are calling for stronger police presence and community programs to prevent further violence.
“Demetrius didn’t bother anyone,” said neighbor Clara Johnson, who heard the gunfire from her apartment. “It’s heartbreaking to know someone lost their life right outside their home. We need peace in this city.”
Local leaders have echoed these sentiments. Mayor Skip Henderson released a brief statement expressing condolences to the Wilkerson family and reaffirming the city’s commitment to addressing gun violence. “Every life lost is one too many,” the statement read. “We stand with the family of Mr. Wilkerson and all those impacted by this senseless act.”
A Life Remembered
Family and friends plan to hold a candlelight vigil in Wilkerson’s honor Sunday evening at Lakebottom Park, a place he often visited. The vigil will serve both as a remembrance of his life and as a call for unity against violence in the community.
His sister, Danielle Wilkerson, shared her heartbreak: “My brother had dreams, goals, and love for everyone. He didn’t deserve to be taken away like this. We just want justice for him — nothing more, nothing less.”
Moving Forward
As investigators continue their search for the suspect, the loss of Demetrius Wilkerson serves as another painful reminder of the human cost of gun violence. His family and friends cling to faith and memories while urging anyone with information to speak up.
The Columbus Police Department asks that anyone with knowledge of the incident contact the Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the department’s hotline.
For now, Columbus mourns a man remembered not for how he passed, but for how he lived — with kindness, hope, and love for his community.
