UPDATE: CPD investigating early morning shooting near the Business Loop
UPDATE: 2:00 p.m.: The Columbia Police Department confirms officers were investigating an early morning shooting near the Business Loop 70 Sunday.
The first call for reports of shots fired was around 1:15 a.m. near the 500 block of College Avenue. Police said occupants inside two vehicles were exchanging gunfire.
The two cars continued to shoot at each other as they traveled westbound on Business Loop 70. Officers said the cars then turned down side streets and continued back on the Business Loop until Garth Avenue.
Officers found several types of shell casings from different types of firearms. Police said no one was hurt in the shooting, but several businesses and cars were hit by bullets.
Police said the cars believed to be involved in the shooting include a newer, dark colored SUV and a lighter colored Mercedes-style car.
Anyone with information is asked to call CPD at (573) 874-7652, or call CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS to remain anonymous.
UPDATE: 8:00 a.m.: The Business Loop between Garth and Grand Avenues is back open after Columbia police officers briefly closed the stretch early Sunday morning.
The officers closed the westbound lanes for about 45 minutes to an hour while they investigated the scene.
ORIGINAL STORY: Right now, the area of Business Loop and Garth Avenue is closed due to a police investigation.
Boone County Joint Communications is asking drivers to take an alternate route.
ABC 17 News saw Columbia Police blocking the area between Grand Ave and Garth on the Business Loop. As of 2:22 a.m., several police are still on scene.
ABC 17 News has also heard reports of police finding shell casings in the area. We will have a reporter on scene shortly and will update this story once we know more.
