(COLUMBIA, MO) -
At approximately 2:40 p.m. Columbia Police were involved in an officer involved shooting in the 2200 block of Stadium Blvd.
The suspect involved was identified as James Sears, III, 38, of Columbia, Mo.
Sears was being actively investigated by CPD officers for narcotics distribution and an outstanding warrant for a felony probation violation with a caution indicator that he was known to have been armed and dangerous.
A cursory review of available video footage revealed Sears drew a firearm on the officers and posed an immediate threat to officers and citizens in the area. Two officers fired their firearms after the suspect failed to comply with verbal commands. In this case, the footage showed enough detail to release these preliminary observations.
As a result of the incident, Sears sustained life-threatening injuries. Officers immediately rendered aid until EMS arrived. Sears was transported to a local hospital by ambulance. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
Next of kin has been notified.
"There are multiple people impacted when events like this occur and we have to find ways to support each other," said Chief Geoff Jones. "I would like to thank the citizens who patiently waited for investigators, first responders, transit employees, Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri State Highway Patrol for assisting us."
At this time, the case is being investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control while CPD runs its Internal Affairs Investigation currently. The autopsy is currently being scheduled. This is an ongoing investigation. More information may become available later.
If you know something, say something. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to please contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652 or CrimeStoppers at 573.875.TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.
View the CPD’s Officer Involved Shooting Policy.
Case Number 2021-004890
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