Two arrested in Columbus recreation center murder
Columbus police announced the arrests of two men in connection to the Shirley B. Winston recreation center murder.
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The deadly shooting occurred on August 29, 2025, inside the recreation center on Steam Mill Road.
Police said the shooting occurred during the robbery of the victims items. The victim, identified as Jacarie Charles, 22, was pronounced dead.
Following a thorough investigation from Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes and Fugitive units, 18-year-old Navaris Johnson and 20-year-old Jamorris Baker were arrested on murder and possession of firearm during commission of a crime charges.
Baker was arrested on September 11th by Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County Sheriff’s Office, and Phenix City Police Department.
Baker faces a single charge of obstruction in Russell County. Baker awaits extradition to Columbus.
Johnson was booked into the Muscogee County Jail on September 22, 2025.
Columbus police said police presence at the center have been increased since the shooting.
Police also said violent crimes and part one crimes are down 15-percent due to the hard work and dedication from their officers and the use of technology from the Real Time Crime Center.
The investigation into the recreation center murder remains ongoing, and additional charges and arrests are possible.
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