Columbia man arrested on suspicion of early morning shots-fired

EDITOR'S NOTE: The headline was updated to accurately reflect the incident.

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Columbia Police Department has identified 20-year-old Tavan Eric Williams-Patrick of Columbia as the suspect who allegedly fired shots in downtown Columbia early Sunday morning.

According to a CPD press release, officers on foot heard shots being fired in the 800 block of Walnut Street and saw Williams-Patrick holding a gun and attempting to place it down on the sidewalk.

Williams-Patrick was arrested while trying to run away from the scene on charges of fourth-degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Columbia Police Department Lieutenant Anthony Bowne said on scene the suspect was found with a handgun and was taken into custody. He also reported that no one was injured and no property was damaged, but evidence of shots fired was found.

An ABC 17 News reporter on scene observed police taping off several blocks of E Walnut Street from 8th Street to 9th Street at around 1:20 a.m.

At least nine evidence markers were placed on the sidewalk, and officers putting items in brown paper bags were seen in the area during the police investigation.

A Boone County Joint Communication and a University of Missouri Alert were also sent off at around 1:20 a.m., notifying residents of police activity and an investigation in the area.

"Police are investigating the reports of gunshots at/near Ninth and Walnut. Please stay away from the area," according to an MU Alert.

Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Boone County Sheriff's Office, the University of Missouri Police Department and at least 10 Columbia Police Department cruisers were seen responding.

Police tape came down at around 2:15 a.m.

Check back for updates.