Columbus Teen Charged With Fatal Shooting of His Stepfather

By Janell Williams

Columbus, GA— A 38-year-old man was fatally shot at a residence on Parkhill Drive in Columbus late Thursday night, according to local police.

Officers responded to a call at the 700 block of Parkhill Drive at approximately 10:46 p.m. on July 25, 2024. Upon arrival, they found Evan Garner, a White male, unresponsive. Emergency Medical Services were unable to revive him, and Deputy Coroner Ben Saxon pronounced Garner dead at 11:27 p.m.

The Columbus Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit has taken over the investigation. Authorities have arrested William Burgess, 17, who is charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Burgess is the stepson of the victim.

Burgess is scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court for a preliminary hearing on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 9 a.m.

Anyone with information regarding the case is urged to contact Sgt. Michael Dahnke at 706-225-4929. Callers may remain anonymous.