Columbia Police Investigate Early Morning Shooting on East Walnut Street
COLUMBIA, MO — June 8, 2025
In the early hours of Sunday morning, an unsettling scene unfolded in downtown Columbia as officers with the Columbia Police Department (CPD) responded to reports of gunfire in the 800 block of East Walnut Street. The call came in around 1:45 a.m., prompting an immediate law enforcement response to a bustling area often frequented during late-night hours.
Upon arrival, CPD officers discovered a victim who had sustained minor injuries, believed to be related to the shooting. Emergency medical personnel responded promptly and treated the individual at the scene. Thankfully, the injuries were not life-threatening, and the victim did not require hospitalization.
In addition to the reported injuries, three vehicles parked nearby sustained visible damage from the gunfire. Investigators are currently working to determine whether the vehicles were directly targeted or caught in the crossfire. The extent of the property damage has not yet been fully assessed, but residents and business owners in the area have expressed concern over the growing number of violent incidents downtown.
No suspects are currently in custody, and CPD has not yet released any information about possible persons of interest. Detectives have been canvassing the area for witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding buildings in hopes of gathering clues that may lead to an arrest.
This incident marks the latest in a series of shootings that have stirred concerns among Columbia residents, particularly regarding safety in nightlife districts. The CPD has pledged to increase patrols and visibility in key areas as part of ongoing efforts to curb violent crime and ensure public safety.
Authorities are now urging anyone with information that might assist the investigation to come forward. Whether you saw something suspicious, heard gunshots, or captured video footage around the time of the incident, your assistance could prove crucial in solving this case.
Community members can contact the Columbia Police Department directly at (573) 874-7652. For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (573) 875-TIPS (8477). Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward if their information leads to an arrest.
As the investigation continues, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activity. The Columbia Police Department remains committed to working with the community to ensure that the city remains a safe and welcoming place for all.