Officers, deputies draw weapons in Columbia traffic stop

Law enforcement today closed Nebraska Avenue while they pulled over and drew guns on a rental van that had been reported stolen, which was a surprise to the family driving.

Several law enforcement agents had their weapons drawn as the family came out of the UHaul van with their hands up one at a time. The road was briefly closed as the van’s occupants were put in handcuffs.

After gaining control of the situation law enforcement learned that the driver did not know the van was reported stolen or that the rental had expired. He said his friend had rented the vehicle, and that the effort shown by law enforcement was understandable given the context.

The Columbia Police Department, Boone County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol all took part in the stop on Nebraska Avenue near Providence Road around 3 p.m.

ABC 17 News is on scene, and continuing to gather information. Stay tuned to this page for more details as we get them.