Columbus Police Renew Call for Witnesses in 2024 Fatal Shooting of Teen

Staff Report

The Columbus Police Department is renewing its request for information in the 2024 shooting death of 17-year-old Bryson Cochran.

Police say officers responded to reports of a shooting around 12:32 a.m. on Apr. 7, 2024, in the 2900 block of Tip Top Drive. When they arrived, they found Cochran lying in the roadway with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:23 a.m.

Investigators with the department’s Violent Crimes Unit determined that an after-prom party for Central High School was taking place at the time, with nearly 100 people in attendance. Despite the large crowd, many witnesses told police they did not see what happened.

One year later, the case remains unsolved. Police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.

“Even the smallest detail could help bring justice to Bryson Cochran and closure to his family,” police said in a statement.

Those with information are asked to contact Cpl. Jared Berger at 706-225-4325 or via email at berger.jared@columbusga.org.

A cash reward is being offered for tips leading to an arrest, including a $5,000 contribution from Cochran’s family.