Sunday morning Columbia shooting suspect previously charged in 2022 murder

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Columbia man is back in custody after police said he fired shots in downtown Columbia early Sunday morning.

The Columbia Police Department identified the alleged gunman as 20-year-old Tavan Eric Williams-Patrick.

Police claim Williams-Patrick was seen holding a gun and attempting to place it on a sidewalk before officers arrested him.

Sunday's arrest comes about a year after prosecutors dropped murder charges against Williams-Patrick in connection with the death of 15-year-old Aubrey Doxley last Aug.

In 2022, Boone County prosecutors accused Williams-Patrick, who was 16 at the time, and three other teenagers of taking part in a shooting that killed Doxley on McKee Street.

Prosecutors initially charged Williams-Patrick as an adult with felony counts of second-degree murder, armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon in connection with Doxley's death.

Prosecutors dropped those charges last year when Williams-Patrick was 19. At the time, prosecutors said they planned to refile the charges at a later date.

Around 1 a.m. Sunday, police taped off several blocks of East Walnut Street after multiple gunshots were reported. Columbia Police Lt. Anthony Bowne said officers arrested Williams-Patrick shortly after.

The incident drew large crowds from nearby bars and clubs. Police said there were no reported injuries and no damage to nearby cars or buildings.

A source close to Williams-Patrick's family, who did not want to be identified because of the sensitivity of the situation, told ABC 17 that someone attempted to shoot at Williams-Patrick, but the person's gun reportedly jammed.

Police have not confirmed that claim.

Police referred charges against Williams-Patrick of fourth-degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful discharge of a firearm to prosecutors.

Check back for updates.