Columbus Police Seek Suspect in Fatal Broadway Stabbing

Columbus police are searching for a suspect in a deadly stabbing that took place Tuesday afternoon in the city’s bustling downtown district.

According to the Columbus Police Department, officers responded around 1:33 p.m. to reports of a stabbing near the intersection of Broadway and 14th Street. Upon arrival, officers found a Black male suffering from a stab wound. He was transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional, where he was pronounced dead at 2:36 p.m.

The Muscogee County Coroner’s Office was notified, and Deputy Coroner Dustin Harrelson responded to the hospital.

The CPD’s Violent Crimes Unit took over the investigation shortly after the incident. According to the department’s preliminary findings, “an altercation occurred between the victim and the suspect” prior to the stabbing.

Police have identified the suspect as Bobby Browder, 49, who is believed to be homeless. Warrants are being issued for murder and possession of a knife during the commission of a crime.

“The suspect’s hair is currently longer than shown in the previously released booking photo,” the department said in a statement. “We urge the public not to approach Mr. Browder but instead call 911 immediately if he is seen.”

Police have released two photographs of the suspect and confirmed that a reward is being offered for any information that leads to his arrest. Tips can also be submitted to Corporal C. Alexander at 706-225-4263. Callers may remain anonymous.

The stabbing has rattled nearby business owners and residents, many of whom frequent the Broadway corridor during lunch hours.

“I work right around the corner,” said Tamika Lawson, a bank employee who often walks through the area on her break. “It’s scary to think this happened in broad daylight. We need more patrols down here — it’s not the first time something’s gone down on this block.”

Longtime downtown resident Rudy Ellis, 67, agreed.

“Broadway used to feel a lot safer. Now you’ve got people yelling, fighting, sometimes clearly struggling with mental health or homelessness. It’s heartbreaking — and dangerous,” he said. “We need a solution that’s not just reactive.”

The identity of the victim has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.

Columbus police say the investigation is ongoing and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

“This incident happened in a public area during peak hours,” the department said. “We believe someone may have seen something that could help bring justice to the victim and their family.”