Columbus Police Identify Two Victims in Fatal Apartment Complex Shooting: Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III Killed in Southeast Columbus Incident

In a tragic and shocking incident that has left the Columbus, Ohio, community reeling, two men were fatally shot at a southeast Columbus apartment complex on Wednesday afternoon. The victims, 42-year-old Antwan Lewis and 31-year-old Harol Forrest III, were killed in what authorities have described as a senseless act of violence. The Columbus Division of Police has released the identities of the victims as part of their ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting. This violent tragedy unfolded at the 700 block of East Whittier Street, in the vicinity of the Midtown and Old Oaks neighborhoods, an area that has otherwise been known for its close-knit community and peaceful environment.

The shooting occurred shortly after 4:35 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Authorities responded to a report of gunfire at the Pinebrook Apartments and arrived at the scene to find the two victims, both suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Paramedics were immediately called to the scene, but despite efforts to save their lives, both men were pronounced dead at the location. The authorities have stated that there were no immediate suspects in custody, but the investigation is ongoing, and detectives have promised to leave no stone unturned in their search for justice.

Details of the Incident

The fatal shooting took place in broad daylight, at an apartment complex that is home to a number of families and young professionals. According to witnesses, there was an altercation or dispute between the two victims and an unknown assailant prior to the shooting, but the specifics of this confrontation remain unclear. What is known, however, is that the violence occurred quickly and with little warning, leaving those nearby stunned and frightened.

Witnesses who were in the area at the time of the shooting reported hearing several gunshots, which rang out just as the afternoon sunlight began to fade. Some residents of the Pinebrook Apartments described feeling an overwhelming sense of fear as the shots echoed throughout the complex. “I heard what sounded like popping noises at first, and then I saw people running, shouting for help,” one resident, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted. “It was chaos. It happened so fast.”

In response to the gunfire, the Columbus Division of Police dispatched officers and investigators to the scene, and the area was soon cordoned off with crime scene tape. Investigators spent several hours at the scene, canvassing the area for potential witnesses and collecting evidence. The Columbus Division of Police, working alongside the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), is carefully piecing together the sequence of events that led up to the shooting.

The Victims: Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III

Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III were both well-known and respected members of their community. Friends and family of the victims have expressed their shock and heartbreak over the senseless deaths of the two men. Both victims were remembered by those who knew them as loving fathers, dedicated friends, and hardworking individuals who contributed positively to society.

Antwan Lewis

Antwan Lewis, 42, was a father of three and a well-regarded member of his neighborhood. He worked as a maintenance technician at a local property management company, a role that saw him working tirelessly to ensure that local housing units were properly maintained and cared for. He was known for his friendly demeanor, his willingness to help others, and his deep love for his family.

“He was a good man. He loved his kids more than anything in this world,” said a close family friend. “He was always there for people who needed him, whether it was helping someone with their car or giving advice. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”

Antwan’s family has been vocal in their grief, with his mother and siblings expressing the painful loss they have experienced. They described him as a man who always put others first and had a natural ability to make people laugh and feel comfortable. “He didn’t deserve this. He was just trying to live his life and take care of his family. It’s heartbreaking that it ended this way,” his mother shared during an emotional interview.

Harol Forrest III

Harol Forrest III, 31, was another individual whose death has deeply affected the local community. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Harol was passionate about working in the technology sector. He had started his own small business, providing IT support and technology services to local organizations. He was respected by his peers for his knowledge and skill in his field, and his work ethic earned him admiration in both professional and personal circles.

Harol was also described as someone with a strong commitment to his family and friends. “Harol always had a smile on his face and was always looking out for others,” said a longtime friend. “He was working hard to make a better future for himself and those he loved. His passing leaves a big hole in so many people’s hearts.”

The Investigation: A Focus on Finding the Truth

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the Columbus Division of Police is asking for the public’s assistance. Detectives are seeking any information that might lead to identifying the suspect or suspects involved in the deaths of Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III. Authorities have not yet released any information about a potential motive, but they have stated that they are pursuing all leads, including surveillance footage from nearby cameras and any eyewitness accounts from people who might have witnessed the shooting.

“We are working tirelessly to understand what led to this tragic event and to hold those responsible accountable,” said Columbus Police Chief, Elaine Bryant. “We are committed to finding justice for these two men and their families, and we will not rest until we have the answers.”

Columbus Police also emphasized the importance of the community’s involvement in solving this case. “If anyone saw anything or knows something, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, we urge you to come forward,” Chief Bryant added. “Your help can make all the difference.”

A Community Reeling from Tragedy

The shooting at the Pinebrook Apartments has left the Columbus community devastated. Neighbors who knew Antwan and Harol have expressed their disbelief, with many describing the incident as something that could happen to anyone. “We live in a peaceful area, or at least we thought we did. No one ever expects something like this to happen so close to home,” said one neighbor who lived nearby for years. “It’s heartbreaking, and it feels like we’re all mourning the loss together.”

For many, the deaths of Antwan and Harol have shone a light on the ongoing issue of gun violence in the city. While Columbus has long been known for its vibrant communities and opportunities, it has also struggled with incidents of violence, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Police and community leaders are now calling for increased efforts to prevent further violence and to bring those responsible for these types of tragedies to justice.

“This is not just a loss for these families,” said Pastor James Lawson of the Mount Zion Church, located near the Pinebrook Apartments. “It’s a loss for all of us. We need to work together, as a community, to stop this senseless violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these victims, but it’s time for action. We can’t continue to let this happen.”

Pastor Lawson, along with other community leaders, has called for greater investment in programs that provide support for at-risk youth, conflict resolution initiatives, and stronger community policing efforts. He added, “We can’t just talk about change; we need to take action. Our city deserves better.”

The Impact on the Families

As the investigation continues, the families of Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III are left grappling with the aftermath of this heartbreaking tragedy. They are remembering their loved ones for who they were and what they brought to the world: love, kindness, hard work, and dedication. The families are asking for privacy during this difficult time but are hopeful that justice will prevail.

“Antwan and Harol may be gone, but they will never be forgotten,” said Antwan’s sister, as she wiped away tears. “They touched so many lives, and we will carry their memories with us forever.”

Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Reflection

The deaths of Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III have shaken the Columbus community to its core. This senseless act of violence serves as a tragic reminder of the ever-present threat of gun violence in communities across the United States. As the investigation unfolds, the families of the victims continue to mourn their loss, and the city of Columbus is left to reflect on how it can come together to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

In the meantime, the Columbus Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. As Chief Bryant stated, “We will not rest until justice is served for Antwan and Harol, and we owe it to their families to find the truth.”

While the shooting has left a hole in the hearts of many, it has also inspired a renewed sense of community and commitment to change. As Columbus grapples with the aftermath of this devastating incident, residents are more determined than ever to work together to prevent further violence and to ensure that the memories of Antwan Lewis and Harol Forrest III are honored in the most meaningful way possible—through justice and a collective effort toward a safer, more peaceful community.