COLUMBIA, Missouri (KMIZ)
A man was hospitalized following a shooting in downtown Columbia early Sunday morning.
According to a Columbia Police press release, officers in the area heard gunshots near 10th St. and Broadway Blvd around 2:50 a.m.
The press release states that a man with non-life-threatening injuries was transported to a local hospital by private vehicle prior to officers' arrival. Officers found evidence at the scene, including bullet casings.
There is currently no information about a suspect.
ABC 17 News observed law enforcement officers from the Columbia Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Boone County Sheriff's Office in the area between 9th and 10th streets at Broadway Blvd. around 3:00 a.m. Sunday.
The intersection of 9th St. and Broadway to Cherry St. and 10th St. was cordoned off with police tape. The tape was removed around 5:10 a.m.
At 3:22 a.m., a joint Boone County communications alert was sent out stating that E Broadway from Providence Road to Short Street was closed due to a police operation.
Some downtown residents said they did not expect to see so many shootings when they moved to Columbia.
Ellie Compson, who has lived downtown for several years, said she was aware of the shooting when it happened.
“I heard a noise and people were nearby,” Compton said.
Compton said she has not witnessed a shooting herself, but has occasionally seen the aftermath. Compton said that despite the crime in the area, she still feels safe.
“I feel safe. I'm from the Chicago area and I grew up in places that weren't always the safest,” Compton said.
Gianna Lapasso, who moved to the city center in August, reported a different experience.
“I haven’t had a great experience because I don’t feel safe down here, especially at night,” said Lapasso.
Lapasso also said she believes there is a lack of a large police presence downtown.
“There is never actually any police presence here, but there are a lot of people drinking, a lot of homeless people, it is busy, but there is no police presence,” said Lapasso.
