COLUMBUS, OH — A city is in mourning, and a family is left shattered as police continue an intensive manhunt for two suspects wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of 16-year-old Davion Elzy, a teenager whose life was tragically cut short in an act of senseless gun violence.
The Columbus Division of Police confirmed that Davion Elzy was fatally shot on Friday night in the Linden neighborhood, a community that has seen its share of heartbreak but is now rallying in search of justice. Officers responded to reports of gunfire around 9:30 p.m. in the 1700 block of East Hudson Street. When they arrived, they found Elzy suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency crews rendered aid and rushed the teen to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, but despite all life-saving efforts, Elzy was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Witnesses told police that two unidentified individuals were seen fleeing the area immediately following the gunfire. Detectives have released limited information about the suspects but believe they may have ties to the area. As of Sunday evening, no arrests have been made.
A Young Life Cut Short
Davion Elzy was a student at a local high school and, according to friends and family, had dreams of going to college and pursuing a career in business or sports. Known for his infectious smile and kind spirit, he was described as a young man who was full of promise, loved by his peers, and devoted to his family.
“Davion was more than just a victim,” said family spokesperson Latoya Greene. “He was a brother, a son, a friend. He had dreams. He had goals. He was trying to make something of himself. And now we’re planning his funeral.”
Grief has swept through the Elzy household, where family members gathered over the weekend, surrounded by loved ones and community members offering prayers, condolences, and calls for justice. A memorial now marks the spot where Elzy was shot—candles, flowers, balloons, and hand-written notes left in his honor.
“He was just a kid,” said one of his classmates. “He didn’t deserve this. None of us feel safe anymore.”
Community Outrage and Call for Justice
The shooting has sparked renewed outrage in the Columbus community, where youth gun violence continues to be a major concern. Elzy’s death marks yet another heartbreaking chapter in a year already marred by gun-related tragedies involving minors.
Columbus Police say they are dedicating all available resources to locate and apprehend the suspects, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward. Surveillance footage from the area is being reviewed, and detectives are canvassing nearby businesses and homes in search of witnesses or evidence.
“We are committed to getting justice for Davion and his family,” said Columbus Police Commander Smith. “We believe someone out there knows who did this. We are asking—pleading—for the community’s help.”
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for any tips leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 614-645-TIPS or using the Columbus PD crime reporting app.
A Vigil for Davion
Friends and family have planned a candlelight vigil in Davion’s memory, set to take place near the scene of the shooting later this week. Local clergy and anti-violence advocates will speak, and school officials say counselors will be available to support grieving classmates.
“Let this not just be a tragedy, but a turning point,” said Rev. Marcus Johnson, a local pastor and youth mentor. “We can’t lose another child to this cycle of violence.”
As the city of Columbus grieves the life of 16-year-old Davion Elzy, the search for answers—and for those responsible—continues. For a heartbroken family, justice remains the only solace in a time of unimaginable pain.
