Hailey
Columbia Shooting: A deadly shooting in downtown Columbia, Missouri, has left the local community shocked and mourning. A Stephens College student lost her life after being caught in the violence that took place just minutes after bars closed on a Saturday night.
Police records and court documents have revealed details about what happened, the suspect’s arrest, and the serious charges now filed.
The Victim
The victim of this tragedy was Aiyanna Williams, a student at Stephens College. After being shot, she was taken to University Hospital and placed on artificial life support to allow organ donation. Sadly, she died on Sunday.
Her death has left the Stephens College community heartbroken. Students, staff, and locals gathered in Columbia to honor her memory and support her family.
The Suspect and Charges
The man arrested in this case is 23-year-old Misael Covarrubias, originally from Fellsmere, Florida. Court documents say he had been living in Columbia for the past five months.
He now faces seven charges connected to the shooting:
Charges Against Misael Covarrubias
| Charge Type | Number of Counts | Details |
|---|---|---|
| First-degree assault | 3 | For seriously injuring multiple victims |
| Armed criminal action | 3 | Linked to using a weapon during the crime |
| Unlawful use of a weapon | 1 | Involving death or serious injury |
Covarrubias made his first court appearance on Monday. A bond hearing is set for October 7, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 6.
How the Shooting Happened
Police say the shooting took place around 1:42 a.m. on East Broadway, just 12 minutes after bars had closed in the busy downtown area.
- Three people were shot and taken to University Hospital with serious injuries.
- One of them was listed in critical, life-threatening condition.
- Police found 11 shell casings from a 9mm pistol at the scene.
Covarrubias was later spotted running near North Eighth Street. Officers saw him drop and then pick up a pistol before putting it back in his waistband. The pistol matched the shell casings at the scene.
Statements and Evidence
According to court documents, Covarrubias told police he felt threatened and believed people were ganging up on him, which led him to fire into the crowd.
Another witness said that Covarrubias grabbed a woman, and when a man told him to let her go, he pushed the man before opening fire.
Police also reported that:
- Covarrubias admitted he had three alcoholic drinks earlier that night.
- Officers noticed the smell of alcohol during their interview.
Community Response
The Columbia community has reacted with sadness and anger. Stephens College released a statement remembering Aiyanna Williams, praising her decision to help others by becoming an organ donor.
Community members have gathered for vigils and memorials, showing support for her family and calling for peace and safety in the downtown area.
The Columbia downtown shooting has left behind grief, anger, and a demand for justice. With seven charges filed against the suspect and the tragic loss of a promising college student, the case has shaken both the Stephens College family and the wider community.
As court dates approach, many are hoping that justice will be served and that such violence can be prevented in the future.