The quiet of a typical evening in East Columbus was shattered by a burst of violence that left a community grieving and a family shattered.
At approximately 9:24 p.m., what began as a heated argument at Sterling Court Apartments near Stelzer Road escalated into a tragic triple shooting, claiming the life of 29-year-old Janaysia Lewis and injuring two others. This devastating incident underscores how quickly conflict can spiral out of control, leaving scars that linger far beyond the immediate aftermath.
According to authorities, the confrontation that ignited the violence was intense and unpredictable. Witnesses report that tempers flared amid a moment of tension, and within moments, shots rang out across the apartment complex. Janaysia Lewis was critically wounded during the exchange, struck by gunfire in a manner that proved fatal. Despite efforts to save her, she succumbed to her injuries at the hospital, her life cut short far too soon. Her family and friends are left to grapple with the shock and grief of losing someone so young and full of promise.
Adding to the tragedy, two women who attempted to intervene and stop the shooter were also struck—one in the hand, the other in the foot. Their injuries, though not life-threatening, highlight the chaos and danger of the moment. These brave individuals, trying to prevent further harm, became unintended victims in a situation spiraling out of control. Their courage and the senselessness of the violence serve as poignant reminders of how innocent bystanders often bear the heaviest toll in such conflicts.
The suspect, identified as Zandra Wignal, was quickly apprehended and admitted to firing the gun. Her acknowledgment of her role in the shooting led to her being charged with murder. During her court appearance, her bond was set at a substantial $750,000, reflecting the gravity of the charges against her. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 26, where the facts will be examined further, and justice will continue to unfold. The investigation remains active, with law enforcement diligently collecting evidence and speaking with witnesses to piece together exactly what transpired that night.
This tragic event has left a community in mourning, with many asking how such violence can be prevented in the future. It also raises questions about conflict resolution and the circumstances that lead to such destructive outbursts. As the legal process moves forward, the community’s focus remains on seeking answers and ensuring accountability, hoping that measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
The loss of Janaysia Lewis is a profound reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating impact of gun violence. Her family, friends, and loved ones are left to mourn her absence, holding onto memories of her warmth, laughter, and the bright future that was taken away in an instant. Heartfelt sympathy goes out to all who knew her, as they navigate this painful chapter of grief.
As East Columbus processes this tragedy, the community’s resilience and desire for peace are more vital than ever. The hope is that justice will be served, that lessons will be learned, and that such violence will someday be a thing of the past. For now, we honor the memory of Janaysia Lewis and extend our deepest condolences to her family and friends, praying for their healing and strength in the days to come.
