COLUMBUS, Ga. — A tragic shooting inside the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center on Friday afternoon left one man dead, prompting a heavy law enforcement response and an ongoing investigation.
Authorities say the incident occurred just after 2:30 p.m. on August 29, 2025. Multiple agencies, including the Columbus Police Department, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, Muscogee County School District Police Department, and Columbus Fire and EMS, responded to the scene.
Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan confirmed that 22-year-old Jacarie Charles was pronounced dead on scene from a gunshot wound to the chest. According to Councilwoman Toyia Tucker, the shooting occurred inside the gym of the recreation center.
Shortly after the incident, a large law enforcement presence was seen leaving the center and heading toward the Residence at Patriot Place apartments on Buena Vista Road. Authorities have not released details regarding that response.
Councilwoman Tucker later announced that the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center will remain closed for the rest of the week, stating the city is “taking all precautions to ensure the safety of staff and patrons.”
The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit is leading the investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
Leave a Reply