Cusseta RoadShooting Leaves One Dead, One Injured; Teen Arrested on Multiple Charges

By Janell Williams

A fatal shooting Monday afternoon on Cusseta Road has left one man dead and another injured, and a 17-year-old in custody on murder and armed robbery charges, according to Columbus Police.

Officers responded to the 3700 block of Cusseta Road around 2:39 p.m. on Monday, May 5, after receiving reports of gunfire. At the scene, police found 33-year-old Chastin Hunter suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported by ambulance to Piedmont Columbus Regional, where he was pronounced dead at 5:32 p.m. by an emergency room physician.

Shortly after, a second male victim arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound. He is currently listed in stable condition and is receiving treatment, police said.

The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit took over the investigation, leading to the arrest of 17-year-old Anthony Pollard Jr. He has been charged with murder, aggravated assault, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Pollard is scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court for a preliminary hearing on Wednesday, May 7, at 8 a.m.

Assistant Chief D. Kennedy confirmed the charges in a statement Tuesday. “Although an arrest has been made, the investigation is ongoing,” he said. “We urge anyone with information to come forward.”

Residents of Avalon Apartments, located near the crime scene, say the shooting has shaken their sense of safety.

“It’s scary knowing this happened so close to home,” said Tanya Richardson, 29, who has lived in Avalon Apartments for four years. “I was just getting off the bus with my kids when the police cars rushed by. We don’t feel safe anymore.”

Another resident, Michael Graves, 41, said violence in the area has increased recently. “It’s not the first time we’ve heard gunshots around here,” he said. “But now someone’s dead. Something needs to change before more families are torn apart.”

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact Sgt. D. Baker at 706-225-4296 or by email at DBaker@columbusga.org. Tipsters may remain anonymous.