Tragic Loss in Columbus: Hernandez Hubbard II, 20, Fatally Shot in Early Morning Drive-By Shooting
COLUMBUS, GA — A promising young life was tragically cut short in the early hours of Tuesday, July 22, 2025, when Hernandez Hubbard II, aged 20, was fatally shot in a violent drive-by shooting. The incident occurred in the 6100 block of Stone Way Drive, shaking the community and leaving friends, family, and neighbors devastated.
The Incident
Shortly before 6 a.m., the quiet of the neighborhood was shattered by the sound of gunfire. Responding to multiple emergency calls, Columbus Police officers arrived on the scene at approximately 5:54 a.m. to find Hernandez Hubbard II suffering from a gunshot wound to the head inside a residence. Emergency medical responders immediately rushed him to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital, where his critical condition necessitated transfer to a hospital in Atlanta for advanced medical care. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Hernandez tragically passed away later that afternoon at 2:59 p.m..
Community Impact
Hernandez Hubbard II was widely known and loved within his community. Friends and family remember him as a bright young man full of ambition and hope, whose life was brimming with potential before it was so senselessly taken away. The news of his death has sent shockwaves throughout Columbus, leaving many grappling with sorrow and a desire for answers.
Neighbors along Stone Way Drive expressed a mixture of grief and fear, describing the moment the shooting occurred as terrifying and surreal. “It’s hard to come to terms with the fact that such violence can erupt so close to home,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “Hernandez was someone many of us knew, and his loss is deeply felt.”
Police Investigation
The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit has assumed leadership of the investigation into Hernandez’s murder. Authorities have classified the shooting as a drive-by attack, indicating that the perpetrator(s) fired from a moving vehicle before fleeing the scene. As of now, no arrests have been made.
Law enforcement officials are actively seeking assistance from the public, urging anyone with information—whether it be eyewitness accounts, video surveillance, or details of suspicious activity—to come forward. Detectives stress the importance of community cooperation in solving the case and bringing those responsible to justice.
A police spokesperson stated, “We are committed to ensuring justice is served. The loss of Hernandez is tragic, and we will not rest until those accountable are held responsible. We ask anyone with relevant information to contact us immediately.”
The Larger Issue of Gun Violence
Hernandez’s death is part of a growing pattern of gun-related violence impacting Columbus and many other communities across the country. Local officials and community leaders have voiced concern over the escalating frequency of such incidents and the toll they take on families and neighborhoods.
In response, various organizations and advocacy groups have renewed calls for enhanced community safety measures, increased police presence, and programs targeting the root causes of violence. Efforts to engage youth through mentorship and educational initiatives are being prioritized in hopes of curbing the cycle of violence.
Family and Community Mourning
The Hubbard family, devastated by the sudden loss of their loved one, has requested privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking time. Tributes pouring in from friends, neighbors, and community members emphasize Hernandez’s positive impact and the bright future that was tragically ended.
An upcoming candlelight vigil is being organized in his memory, aimed at uniting the community in grief and in the hope for a safer future. The event will provide an opportunity for residents to pay their respects, support the family, and stand against violence.
Summary of Key Details:
- Victim: Hernandez Hubbard II, 21
- Date and Time: July 22, 2025, approx. 5:54 a.m.
- Location: 6100 block of Stone Way Drive, Columbus, GA
- Cause of Death: Gunshot wound to the head
- Time of Death: 2:59 p.m. same day, Atlanta hospital
- Investigation: Active, led by Columbus PD Violent Crimes Unit
- Arrests: None reported
- Public Assistance: Witnesses and those with information urged to contact authorities
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Hernandez Hubbard II’s death serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need to address gun violence. The Columbus community mourns the loss of one of its own, and many hope that through justice, healing, and proactive measures, such tragedies can be prevented in the future.