In the summer of 2025, a deadly shooting in east Columbus claimed the life of 51-year-old Donnie Keith Hand. On Saturday, July 5, 2025, at approximately 12:00 P.M., police responded to a call in the 2800 block of Reese Road. Upon arrival, they discovered Hand suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene by coroner officials at 12:21 P.M.
An arrest was made swiftly in connection with the shooting.
Christopher Popp, 35 years old, was taken into custody at the scene. He was subsequently charged with murder and booked into the Muscogee County Jail to await his court appearance. Family members indicated that Popp had been dealing with mental health issues, though authorities have not officially confirmed if this was a factor in the incident. The shooting marked a grim period for the city, being the third murder in Columbus since the preceding Thursday.
Donnie Hand, born in Columbus on September 16, 1973, was known as a skilled handyman who could build or fix anything. He had been working as a superintendent for Pound - Clark General Contractors, LLC for seven months prior to his death. He is remembered for enjoying simple pleasures like watching Netflix with his wife of 14 years, Lisa Lorraine Hand, playing the guitar, and singing. He especially cherished playing hide-and-go-seek with his grandson, who was described as the light of his life. He was survived by his wife, a son, two step-sons, a step-daughter, a brother, a sister, and numerous other relatives and friends. A visitation for family and friends was held the following Saturday to honor his memory.
