Columbia Police officers responded to the 1700 block of Stanford Drive at 12:05 p.m. today in reference to a reported gunshot wound.

Upon officers' arrival, they located a female victim with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to a local hospital for treatment. At the time of the victim's transport, the injury appeared to be non-life-threatening.

The preliminary investigation revealed the female was shot by a male suspect who then fled the scene. Multiple schools in the area of the shooting were immediately put on lockdown. Officers and detectives have a possible identification of the suspect and are working several leads throughout the city in efforts of apprehending him. A perimeter was established around the area of the shooting and multiple K-9 tracks, including assistance from a Boone County Sheriff's Department K-9, have been conducted. At the time of this release, the suspect is still outstanding.

The suspect is described as a black male, approximately 6 foot tall with a heavy build and short hair. He was last seen wearing a red shirt and light colored pants or shorts. Citizens are encouraged to be vigilant and report suspicious people or activity to law enforcement immediately by dialing 911.

2017-008774