Columbus, GA – 22-year-old Jacarie Charles has died following a shooting inside a community recreation center on Friday afternoon, leaving the city shaken and prompting an immediate law enforcement and city response.
The incident happened just after 2:30 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, inside the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center. Multiple law enforcement and emergency agencies rushed to the scene, including the Columbus Police Department, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, Muscogee County School District Police Department, and Columbus Fire and EMS.
According to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan, Charles was pronounced deceased at the scene from a gunshot wound to the chest. Early reports indicate that the fatal shooting occurred inside the gym of the recreation center.
City Councilwoman Toyia Tucker confirmed Charles’s death and the location of the shooting. She also addressed community safety concerns, announcing via her social media platforms that the recreation center would remain closed for the rest of the week while the city takes “all precautions to ensure the safety of their staff and patrons.”
Law Enforcement Activity on Buena Vista Road
Shortly after the incident, a significant law enforcement presence was seen leaving the recreation center. Authorities were later spotted at The Residence at Patriot Place apartment complex on Buena Vista Road. The nature of this activity has not yet been clarified by officials, and it remains unknown whether it is directly related to the fatal shooting.
Investigation Underway
The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation. No details have been released regarding possible suspects, motives, or arrests. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
Community Concerns
The shooting at a recreation center—a space designed for youth engagement, fitness, and community building—has stirred unease across Columbus. Recreation centers are traditionally considered safe spaces, and this incident highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence impacting public areas.
City leaders, community members, and law enforcement officials are now facing urgent questions about safety, prevention, and accountability. With the recreation center closed for the week, attention is turning to both the ongoing investigation and the broader discussion of how to keep community facilities safe for residents.
How to Help
The Columbus Police Department is asking anyone with knowledge of the shooting to contact their Violent Crimes Unit. Community cooperation, they stress, will be essential in bringing answers and justice for the family of Jacarie Charles.
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