COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) – Two men have been charged with murder in connection with the June shooting death of 21-year-old Jay’Veon Bell, the Columbus Police Department announced.
On June 22, 2026, Columbus police officers responded to the area of 31st Avenue and Delta Street for a reported shooting. Officers found Bell suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Violent Crimes Unit took lead on the investigation.
Suspects charged
Waquay Harris, 26, and Tristan Cook, 19, have each been charged with murder, armed robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Prior arrests
Both suspects were already being held in the Muscogee County Jail on charges related to a separate carjacking investigation. Those charges include hijacking a motor vehicle, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
Hearing scheduled
Harris and Cook are scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court for a preliminary hearing Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m…