In a shocking turn of events on Tuesday night, December 12, 2023, a targeted shooting rattled a peaceful Columbus suburb, leaving one dead and five others injured. The incident unfolded around 11 p.m. at KDC/One, a cosmetics company located in New Albany—a community known for its tranquility and safe atmosphere. The sudden eruption of violence disrupted the lives of many and left residents grappling with the unsettling reality of such an event occurring in their neighborhood.
- One person dead in Columbus warehouse shooting.
- Five hospitalized after targeted shooting incident.
- Person of interest identified but not in custody.
- Police used drone for evacuating building.
- New Albany Police Chief calls it a tragedy.
- Approximately 150 people evacuated from location.
As police responded swiftly to the scene, New Albany Police Chief Greg Jones reported that officers encountered a chaotic situation. “People were self-evacuating, trying to get to safety as we arrived,” he relayed, highlighting the tense atmosphere as law enforcement arrived on the scene of what was swiftly classified as an active shooter situation. The evacuation process saw roughly 150 individuals relocated to a nearby building, facilitated by the use of a drone for safety and efficiency.
Witness accounts depict a scene of terror. Employees were caught off guard, and the panic was palpable as they attempted to escape the “large building” that moments before had been a workspace. “It’s something none of us expected,” one worker stated, still shaken by the night’s events.
In the aftermath, Chief Jones confirmed the presence of a person of interest, emphasizing that at the time of his statement, this individual was not in custody, but authorities were actively pursuing leads. “There is no ongoing threat to anyone in the vicinity,” he assured the community, attempting to alleviate fears after the horrific shooting that transformed an ordinary night into chaos.
The tragedy felt even more profound considering New Albany’s history, a place that had remained largely untouched by such violence. Mayor Jennifer Aiken expressed her condolences to the victims’ families, stating, “This is a tragedy that touches every one of us in this community. We must come together to support those affected and stand united against violence.”
Investigators have begun piecing together the circumstances surrounding the shooting—who the victims were, why they were targeted, and how such an incident could unfold in their town. Forensic teams were on site, collecting evidence as they worked diligently to unravel this dark chapter in New Albany’s history.
As the weeks unfold, the citizens of New Albany are left to navigate an emotional landscape marked by grief and uncertainty. Those who knew the victims, family and friends alike, will have to cope with an unthinkable loss. The community has rallied together, holding vigils to honor the deceased and support the injured, sending a powerful message that even in the face of tragedy, hope and unity endure.
While the current investigation is still ongoing, Chief Jones and local authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the town. There is a palpable hope among residents that as the investigation progresses, they will gain a clearer understanding of what transpired that fateful night. As they look toward the future, many wonder: how do we move forward in a world where safety can no longer be taken for granted? The answers may take time, but for now, the community’s focus remains on healing and remembrance in the wake of this unprecedented event.
