Juvenile Homicide Data Highlights Racial Disparities in Columbus

By Janell Williams

A review of juvenile homicide data from the Muscogee County Coroner’s Office reveals stark racial disparities in violent deaths among young people in Columbus, highlighting a disproportionate impact on Black youth.

Between 2000 and 2024, at least 84 homicides of individuals aged 17 and younger were recorded, accounting for approximately 11 percent of all homicides in the city during that period. Notably, 82 percent of those juvenile victims—69 out of 84—were Black, despite the city’s Black population making up about 54 percent of residents. Additionally, eight percent of all Black juvenile homicide victims were girls.

Recent Trends in Juvenile Homicides

A decade-long review of homicides from 2014 to 2024 shows persistent racial disparities:

• 2024: Six deaths (five Black, one white)
• 2023: 11 deaths (9 Black, one white, one Hispanic)
• 2022: Four deaths (three Black, one white)
• 2021: 14 deaths (10 Black, three white, one biracial)
• 2020: Five deaths (all Black)
• 2019: Four deaths (all Black)
• 2018: One death (Black victim)
• 2017: Two deaths (one Black, one biracial)
• 2016: Five deaths (all Black)
• 2015: No juvenile homicides reported
• 2014: Four deaths (all Black)

Of the 56 juvenile homicides recorded between 2014 and 2024, gunshot wounds accounted for 37 deaths—66 percent of all cases—making firearms the leading cause of juvenile homicides in Columbus. Other causes included head trauma and stabbings.

Addressing the root causes of these disparities remains a critical issue for Columbus leaders, law enforcement and community advocates. This data underscores an urgent need for targeted violence prevention efforts, youth intervention programs and systemic changes to address the factors contributing to these persistent racial disparities in juvenile homicides.