COLUMBUS, OH — A party at a short-term rental turned deadly early Friday, July 5, when gunfire erupted inside an Airbnb near East Livingston Avenue and Wilson Avenue in the Old Oaks neighborhood.
Police responded around midnight after multiple 911 calls about shots fired. Officers arrived to find several victims. At least three were taken to area hospitals, where one person later died from their injuries.
According to investigators, the shooting began when a dispute broke out among partygoers, leading someone to fire multiple rounds into the crowd. No arrests have been made, and the suspect has not been identified.
Neighbors described the scene as chaotic and said the home had previously hosted loud parties. Police spent hours collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage.
The incident has renewed concerns over the use of short-term rentals for large gatherings. Although platforms like Airbnb have banned unauthorized parties, enforcement has been inconsistent. Officials are reviewing whether this property had prior complaints or violations.
Anyone with information is urged to call 614-461-TIPS or contact Columbus Division of Police directly. Tips can be given anonymously.
As the investigation continues, the shooting underscores the dangers of unregulated gatherings and the ongoing problem of gun violence in Columbus.
