GA Man John Burkus ID’d As Innocent Victim Fatally Shot Saturday At Phenix City Riverwalk

PHENIX CITY, AL. (THECOUNT) — John Arthur Burkus, of Columbus, Georgia, has been identified as the innocent victim in a Saturday double-fatal shooting in Phenix City, Alabama.

Burkus, 31, was killed in a double-homicide Saturday afternoon in Phenix City.

According to reports, Burkus was on-foot in the area of the Phenix City Riverwalk, when he happened on a shooting in progress on Saturday.

Burkus was pronounced dead of gunshot injuries.

Burkus’ dog, Charlotte, a lab mix, ran off and has not been located.

Burkus’ parents say John was an avid outdoorsman and regular user of the riverwalk on both sides of the Chattahoochee River.

The other victim has not been identified.

Phenix City Police say “a person of interest” is being sought.

Police are seeking a black man who was seen in the area at the time of the shooting.

DEVELOPING::

Geo quick facts: Columbus is a city in western Georgia. The Chattahoochee Riverwalk is a long promenade for walking or biking along the Chattahoochee River. Overlooking the river, the National Civil War Naval Museum displays the remains of 19th-century warships. The Coca-Cola Space Science Center is home to an immersive theater and an observatory. To the east, the Columbus Museum shows American artwork and regional history exhibits – wikipedia.