Teen Killed in Vineville Street Shooting, Police Seek Public’s Help

By Janell Williams

Columbus Police are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a 17-year-old Tuesday evening in the 1000 block of Vineville Street.

Officers responded to the scene around 5:30 p.m. on May 6 and found the teenager, later identified as David Escobar, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel attempted to resuscitate him on site, but he was pronounced dead by Muscogee County Deputy Coroner Elizabeth Allison at 6:13 p.m.

Assistant Chief D. Kennedy confirmed, “The Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene to take lead on the investigation.”

Escobar's death has sent shockwaves through the neighborhood, where residents say gun violence has become far too common.

“I was sitting on my porch when I heard the shots,” said Maria Alvarez, a neighbor who lives a few houses down. “I didn’t expect to see this kind of tragedy on our street. He was just a kid.”

Others echoed the sentiment, describing a quiet street disrupted by the sound of sirens and flashing lights.

“We saw the paramedics trying everything they could,” said Marcus Thomas, another Vineville resident. “It’s heartbreaking to lose a young life like that.”

Cpl. A. Fairbanks urged community members to step forward with information: “Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact me directly at 706-225-4381. Tips can be submitted anonymously.”

No suspects have been identified at this time, and police say the investigation is active and ongoing.

Anyone with surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, or other relevant details is encouraged to contact the Columbus Police Department.