The Columbia, Missouri, community is reeling after 22-year-old Aiyanna Williams, a student athlete at Stephens College, was shot and killed in a tragic incident over the weekend. The shooting has sparked widespread concern, with University of Missouri President Mun Choi calling it part of a “crime crisis” affecting the city.
What Happened
On Saturday, a shooting in downtown Columbia led to the death of Aiyanna Williams, a senior at Stephens College who was studying nursing. Williams, a former member of the college volleyball team and a passionate dancer, was struck by one of 11 shots fired into a crowd on East Broadway. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Williams succumbed to her injuries on Sunday. Two others were injured in the shooting.
Misael Covarrubias, 23, has been arrested on charges of first-degree assault, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. Police allege that Covarrubias, a man from Florida, fired into the crowd, killing Williams and injuring others. The shooting occurred just hours before the University of Missouri’s Homecoming parade, deepening the sense of tragedy in the community.
Community Reaction and Concerns
President Mun Choi expressed his shock and concern over the incident, calling it part of a broader “crime crisis” facing the city. “We keep our campus very safe,” Choi said, stressing the need to extend those safety measures beyond the campus to the downtown area and the rest of Columbia.
Williams’ death has shaken the Stephens College community and her family, who were expecting her to graduate and pursue a career in healthcare. “Her family now is preparing for her funeral instead of her graduation to become a nurse,” said Ginger Imster, president of the St. Louis alumni chapter for the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Williams was a dedicated student who received multiple scholarships and worked part-time for the University of Missouri Health Care system. Her tragic death has left a lasting impact on the community and calls for action have intensified.
Calls for Immediate Action
In the wake of the shooting, Choi has called for immediate measures to address rising crime in the area, including more policing downtown, hiring additional security officers, implementing a loitering ordinance, and cleaning up homeless encampments. Choi emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of students and residents, highlighting concerns from parents and students about being accosted by homeless individuals while walking to and from campus.
“We need to make sure the downtown region and the rest of Columbia are safe as well,” Choi said, urging for concrete solutions to be implemented.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
Local law enforcement is continuing to investigate the shooting, while university leaders and local politicians are working together to find ways to combat crime in the area. Choi also announced the formation of a crime task force, bringing together leaders from surrounding universities, local government, and law enforcement.
Governor Mike Kehoe has also discussed potential changes with Choi, recognizing the critical role the University of Missouri plays in the state.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic loss of Aiyanna Williams has cast a shadow over the Columbia community, highlighting concerns about public safety and the impact of crime on students and residents. Her family, friends, and the Stephens College community are grieving, and efforts to address the broader crime crisis in Columbia continue.
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This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
