Missouri Highway Patrol investigating after someone is shot with a Columbia Police Department-owned firearm

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control is investigating after someone is shot with a Columbia Police Department-owned firearm on Monday.

Columbia Police first responded early Monday morning after being dispatched to University Hospital and Clinics, 1 Hospital Drive, for a report of a gunshot victim in the emergency room according to the release.

According to the release, Officers talked with the victim and during the investigation determined the firearm used was owned by the Columbia Police Department and issued to a non-commissioned employee. The employee is currently attending the University of Missouri Law Enforcement Training Institute.

The employee has been placed on administrative leave, and Chief Geoff Jones has requested the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control to conduct an investigation.

"As with any incident where a Columbia Police Department-owned firearm is discharged and harms another person, we refer the case to the Patrol to assure the investigation is independent and transparent," said Police Chief Geoff Jones.

Once the Patrol completes its investigation, the Columbia Police Department will conduct an Internal Affairs review.