COLUMBUS, Ga. – A father in Georgia is grieving the loss of his 16-year-old son, who was tragically shot and killed during his prom weekend. The victim, Daryus Bryant, was a standout student-athlete at Manchester High School, excelling in both sports and academics. Described as humble and well-liked by those who knew him, Bryant’s bright future was abruptly cut short.
The shooting took place early Sunday morning at the intersection of Lakeshore Drive and Crystal Drive in Columbus. Bryant and another student from Manchester High, Clarence Favors, were found in separate cars with gunshot wounds after being targeted by a passing vehicle. Despite efforts to save him, Bryant succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital, while Favors was rushed into surgery.
In the wake of the tragedy, Bryant’s father, Cartarsman Bryant, expressed deep sorrow over his son’s untimely death and called for action to address the epidemic of gun violence plaguing communities. He emphasized that his son was a peaceful individual who had a promising future ahead of him, with college offers on the table and a successful athletic career at Manchester High.
Daryus Bryant, affectionately known as D.B., was not known to be involved in any gang-related activities and preferred spending time at home rather than attending social gatherings. His dedication to sports, including football, basketball, and track, had brought him success and accolades, paving the way for a potentially bright future that was tragically cut short.
As a member of the Manchester High football team, Bryant had shown immense talent and potential, drawing interest from college coaches and recruiters. The loss of such a promising young athlete has left a community in mourning, with those who knew him mourning the senseless act of violence that took his life.
In a heartfelt message to the perpetrator responsible for his son’s death, Cartarsman Bryant expressed the pain and devastation felt by the family and community, emphasizing that Daryus Bryant was not deserving of such a fate. The family is determined to seek justice for their son, calling for unity and support in the face of this devastating loss.
Tragically, Daryus Bryant is the second student from Manchester High School to fall victim to gun violence within the past year, underscoring the urgent need for measures to address and prevent such tragedies from recurring. Despite ongoing investigations, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting, leaving the community grappling with grief and uncertainty in the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.