Columbus Teen Charged in Recreation Center Shooting

Marrell Matthews, 17, turned himself in after two people were shot at a local recreation center.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:07pm

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A 17-year-old Columbus resident named Marrell Matthews has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm under 18 years of age after a shooting incident at the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center on January 18th that left two people injured. Matthews also faces charges related to a separate armed robbery that occurred on January 17th.

Why it matters

Gun violence involving minors is an ongoing concern in many communities, and this incident at a public recreation center raises questions about youth crime, access to firearms, and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in addressing these issues.

The details

According to police, officers responded to the recreation center around 6:50 pm on January 18th and found two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. The victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Investigators were able to establish probable cause to issue arrest warrants for Marrell Matthews, who turned himself in on January 21st. In addition to the charges related to the recreation center shooting, Matthews was also identified as a suspect in a separate armed robbery that occurred the day before the shooting incident.

  • On January 18, 2026, police responded to a shooting at the Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center around 6:50 pm.
  • On January 21, 2026, Marrell Matthews, 17, turned himself in to police.
  • On January 23, 2026, Matthews appeared for a preliminary hearing in Recorder's Court and pled not guilty.

The players

Marrell Matthews

A 17-year-old Columbus resident who has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm under 18 years of age in connection with a shooting at a local recreation center, as well as charges related to a separate armed robbery.

Shirley B. Winston Recreation Center

A public recreation center in Columbus, Georgia where the shooting incident took place on January 18, 2026.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Matthews' bail status at a future court hearing.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in addressing youth crime and gun violence, and the need for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes and provide support and opportunities for at-risk youth.