Ariyaun Burton, 17, Fatally Shot in North Columbus; Lyft Driver Also Injured in Early Morning Attack

In the early hours of Sunday, May 4, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred in the 5300 block of Roche Place, near Sinclair Road, in north Columbus. Seventeen-year-old Ariyaun Burton was fatally shot during the incident. A Lyft driver, who had been transporting Burton, was also injured and is currently receiving medical treatment. The driver is expected to survive.

Columbus police responded to the scene shortly before 4:00 a.m. after receiving a 911 call from the Lyft driver, who reported that both he and his passenger had been shot. The driver drove to a Sheetz gas station located in the 900 block of East Dublin-Granville Road to seek assistance. Emergency responders arrived and transported both individuals to Riverside Methodist Hospital. Burton was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

As of now, police have not released details regarding a suspect or the events leading up to the shooting. The incident remains under active investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Columbus Division of Police Homicide Unit or submit tips anonymously through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.

This incident adds to a concerning pattern of youth violence in Columbus. In recent months, several other young individuals have been victims of fatal shootings in the city. For instance, 14-year-old Braiden Johnson was fatally shot in the Franklinton neighborhood in March 2025 . Additionally, 17-year-old Makenzi Ridley was killed outside the Far East Community Center in April 2025 .(The Columbus Dispatch, WOSU Public Media, AP News)

These incidents highlight the urgent need for community intervention and support to address the underlying causes of youth violence in Columbus. Local leaders and organizations are calling for increased investment in youth programs, conflict resolution initiatives, and efforts to reduce the availability of firearms among young people.(The Columbus Dispatch)

As the investigation into Ariyaun Burton’s death continues, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that steps will be taken to prevent further tragedies.