Suspect arrested in deadly Victory Dr. gas station shooting

Dwayne Quarles charged with murder, firearm possession in fatal incident

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:04pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent bullet casing on asphalt, the harsh lighting and dark background creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conceptually represents the aftermath of a violent crime.The discovery of physical evidence at the scene provides crucial clues for investigators piecing together the details of a deadly gas station shooting.Columbus Today

Columbus police have arrested 50-year-old Dwayne Quarles in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred at a Liberty gas station on Victory Drive on the night of April 2, 2026. The victim, 37-year-old Calvin Mitchell, was transported to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.

Why it matters

Gun violence and fatal incidents at gas stations and other public spaces remain a major concern for many communities. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to investigate and apprehend suspects involved in such crimes.

The details

According to police, the shooting broke out in the parking lot of the Liberty gas station around 11:50 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Quarles was taken into custody by the Columbus Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit and SWAT team following an investigation. He has been charged with murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

  • The shooting occurred around 11:50 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • Quarles was arrested following an investigation by the Columbus Police Department.

The players

Dwayne Quarles

A 50-year-old man charged with murder, firearm possession, and other crimes in connection with the gas station shooting.

Calvin Mitchell

The 37-year-old victim who was killed in the shooting at the Liberty gas station.

Columbus Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and made the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information is urged to contact Cpl. K. Baldwin at 706-225-4337 or kbaldwin@columbusga.org. You can remain anonymous.”

— Cpl. K. Baldwin, Columbus Police Department

What’s next

The suspect, Dwayne Quarles, will appear in court in the coming days for an initial hearing on the charges.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing challenges communities face in addressing gun violence and ensuring public safety, particularly in and around commercial areas like gas stations. The arrest of the suspect is a step towards providing some measure of justice and closure for the victim's family and the broader community.