Columbus man pleads guilty in 2023 shooting that killed 4-year-old son, wounded wife

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — A Columbus man who shot his wife and killed his 4-year-old son during a 2023 domestic dispute pleaded guilty Monday in Muscogee County Superior Court.

37-year-old Jacquese Walker admitted to malice murder and several related charges in connection with the Sept.18, 2023, shooting at the couple’s Liberty Commons apartment.

Walker’s wife, Marshama Bolden, survived the attack but faced her husband in court for the first time since that day.

“It’s not fair. He was only 4 years old. … You took my child from me,” Bolden said through tears.

Prosecutors said Walker went into a rage when Bolden told him their 16-year relationship was over.

He shot her and their son before fleeing, sparking a citywide manhunt that ended with his capture in the Lakebottom area more than a day later.

Judge John Martin sentenced Walker to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

He will receive credit for two years already served and could be eligible for parole after 30 years.

During the emotional hearing, Walker spoke for more than 12 minutes, often rambling and repeating himself.

“I never wanted to kill anybody,” Walker said. “I didn’t even want to kill her. I just grabbed it and started shooting. … I didn’t want to lose my family. They were everything to me.”

He later apologized before being led from the courtroom.

“I am so sorry,” he said. “I feel horrible. I am guilty. I didn’t mean to do it.”

Bolden and her family left the courtroom before sentencing was complete and declined to speak afterward.