UPDATE: 24-year-old arrested in deadly Victory Drive motel shooting
A 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a deadly shooting at a Columbus motel Wednesday afternoon.
The Columbus Police Department says Tararus Toliver, 24, was arrested in connection with the shooting that occurred September 16, 2026, at the Motel 6 in the 3000 block of Victory Drive.
Toliver is charged with Murder and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime.
Police say officers were dispatched to the motel around 4:54 p.m. Wednesday in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found a Black male suffering from a gunshot wound.
The victim was identified by police as Jonathan Tennie, 34. Tennie was transported by EMS to Piedmont Columbus Regional, where he died from his injuries.
The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit responded to the scene and took the lead in the investigation.
CNAW2News crews observed crime scene investigators at the motel Wednesday evening. At least 11 evidence markers were placed around the scene, and investigators were examining a gray SUV.
Police say Toliver is scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court for a preliminary hearing Friday, September 18, at 1:30 p.m.
The case remains under investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Cpl. S. Cole at [email protected] or 706-225-4198. Anonymous tips can be provided.
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