Man suspected of hitting pedestrian in downtown Columbia charged

Denver Watts, 37, of Fayette, was charged Friday in Boone County with felony leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident after allegedly hitting a pedestrian in downtown Columbia on Jan. 21.

Columbia police officers were called to the area of Ninth Street and Broadway where the incident happened. Police said one person was hit and had shoulder pain, but refused medical treatment.

Police released surveillance pictures of the truck involved, which was later identified as belonging to Watts.

According to a probable cause statement, Watts admitted to police he was driving when the incident happened. Watts said he didn’t see the people until he was “right up on them.” Watts said the pedestrians started walking away as if they were leaving, so he left as well.

According to online court records, he has pleaded not guilty to the charge.