Man Captured in Alabama, Faces Multiple Charges in Columbus Violent Crime Cases

COLUMBUS, Ga. — A suspect has been arrested in connection with multiple violent incidents investigated by the Columbus Police Department.

Bobby Ray Beaird, 27, was taken into custody following an investigation by the department’s Violent Crimes Unit.

Authorities said Beaird faces several charges tied to an April 24 shooting near Irwin Way and Ida Drive, including armed robbery, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to hijack a motor vehicle, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Investigators also linked Beaird to an April 20 carjacking at Southside Court Apartments. In that case, he faces additional charges of first-degree hijacking of a motor vehicle, along with firearm-related offenses.

Police said members of the Fugitive Unit tracked Beaird to Lanett, Alabama, where he was arrested with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Beaird was extradited to Columbus on May 7th and remains in custody at the Muscogee County Jail.

The investigation remains ongoing.