In the early morning hours of June 2, 2025, a burst of violence outside an American Legion post in Columbus, Georgia, claimed the life of 37-year-old Berry Tyree Benton. A male and a well-known and beloved local barber, Benton was found in the parking lot of the establishment on Cusseta Road with a gunshot wound to his chest. The shooting occurred at approximately 1:45 a.m., shattering the overnight calm.
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, and Benton was rushed to Piedmont
Columbus Regional Midtown Campus for medical attention. Despite the efforts of the medical staff, his injury proved to be fatal, and he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The sudden and violent nature of his death sent ripples of shock and grief through the community, particularly among his family, friends, and loyal clientele who knew him for his skill with clippers and his friendly demeanor.
The Columbus Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit immediately launched a homicide investigation into the shooting. Their work quickly led to the identification of a suspect in the case. Within a short period, the department's Fugitive Unit located and apprehended 44-year-old Nathaniel Gordon, Jr.
Following his arrest, Gordon was charged in connection with the death of Berry Tyree Benton. The charges brought against him included Murder, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He was scheduled for a preliminary hearing to address the allegations. The swift arrest of a suspect brought a small measure of solace to a community mourning the loss of a familiar and cherished member.
