Arrest Made in 2024 Murder of Manchester High Athlete Daryus Bryant
July 5, 2025 – Authorities have announced the arrest of a suspect in the April 2024 slaying of 16-year-old Manchester High School student-athlete Daryus Bryant.
📍 The Incident
Shortly before midnight on April 20, 2024, a vehicle fired shots into two other cars at the intersection of Macon Road and Crystal Drive in Columbus, Georgia. Bryant, who was in Columbus for his school prom, was one of two students struck—he died at the hospital, while another student survived with injuries (wsbtv.com, cnaw2news.com).
🎓 Victim Profile
Bryant, commonly known as “DB,” was a standout at Manchester High School, excelling in football, basketball, and track. He had received three to four college football offers and was described by coaches and family as humble, disciplined, and community‑focused (wtvm.com).
🔍 Investigation Update
Over a year after the shooting, Muscogee County Jail records have confirmed that Zion Deshun Horton, aged 17, has been arrested and charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a crime (cnaw2news.com).
The breakthrough follows persistent leads and community cooperation. Bryant’s family publicly praised the efforts of those who came forward. “And a little over a year, multiple leads, information, music videos later, the first arrest…has been made,” they shared online (cnaw2news.com).
🚨 Call for Justice
Local law enforcement urges anyone with further information about the case to contact Columbus Police. Friends, family, and community members have kept pressure on authorities to find the suspects responsible.
✅ Summary
| Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| April 20, 2024 | Shooting occurred in Columbus; Bryant killed, another injured |
| July 5, 2025 | Zion Horton arrested, charged in connection with Bryant’s death |
| Charges | Murder, aggravated assault, firearm/knife possession at crime scene |
| Community Response | Bryant’s family and community members remain engaged, urging more leads |
This arrest marks the first significant progress in holding someone accountable for the crime, closing in on justice for Daryus “DB” Bryant and his grieving community.