COLUMBUS, GA — A wave of grief has swept through the Columbus community following the tragic death of 21-year-old Hernandez Hubbard II, who was fatally shot during a drive-by shooting early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred on Stone Way Drive, leaving residents shocked and searching for answers as police continue to investigate this senseless act of violence.
According to the Columbus Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 6100 block of Stone Way Drive around 5:40 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, after reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found Hubbard suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was rushed to Grady Hospital in Atlanta, where he was pronounced dead at 2:59 p.m., according to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan. Authorities believe the shooting was a targeted drive-by incident.
Hernandez Hubbard II was remembered by those close to him as a kind-hearted and ambitious young man with a bright future. Social media has been flooded with tributes, photos, and heartfelt messages mourning his untimely passing. “He didn’t deserve this,” one family member shared, echoing the sentiments of many who knew him. “He had so many plans, so much love to give, and his life was stolen in a moment of violence.”
The Columbus Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit is leading the investigation, but no suspects have been publicly identified, and no arrests have been made as of now. Detectives are urging anyone who was in the area of Warm Springs Road near Schomburg Road at the time of the incident to come forward with information. “We are actively pursuing all leads,” a police spokesperson stated. “We urge anyone with information—no matter how minor it may seem—to contact us. Hernandez’s family deserves answers, and we need the community’s help to bring those responsible to justice.”
Tips can be submitted to the Columbus Police Department’s Homicide Unit at 706-653-3400 or anonymously through CrimeStoppers by calling 706-653-3188 or visiting their website.
This homicide adds to growing concerns about gun violence in Columbus, where community leaders and residents are grappling with how to address the root causes of such tragedies. The loss of Hernandez Hubbard II has sparked renewed calls for unity, dialogue, and preventative measures to make neighborhoods safer.
In the coming days, friends and family are expected to organize vigils and memorials to honor Hubbard’s memory, providing a space for the community to grieve and stand together in hope for justice and healing. As Columbus mourns, the loss of Hernandez Hubbard II serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for collective action to combat violence. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, as they seek answers and accountability in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.