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Summary: Brianna N. Hawkins, 21, was fatally shot in Columbia, Missouri, on January 4, 2026, during an incident at an apartment complex that left two other victims with serious injuries. Authorities arrested James Lamont Caldwell Jr., 23, shortly afterward on murder and assault charges. Police described the surviving victims as friends of Hawkins and stated there was no known romantic link to the suspect. The investigation continues.
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COLUMBIA, Mo. — A young woman from Fulton was killed and two others seriously wounded in a shooting at a local apartment complex, leading to the arrest of a suspect on murder and assault charges, police announced.
Authorities identified the deceased as Brianna N. Hawkins, 21, who succumbed to her injuries at University of Missouri Hospital shortly after the incident. According to police reports, officers from the Columbia Police Department rushed to the Greens apartment complex in the 4800 block of Clark Lane around 9:03 p.m. on Jan. 4 following multiple calls about gunfire.
Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered three individuals suffering from severe gunshot wounds. Emergency responders transported all three to the hospital, where medical staff pronounced Hawkins dead. The other two victims, whose identities were not released, received treatment for life-threatening conditions but were expected to recover, officials said.
Investigators quickly zeroed in on James Lamont Caldwell Jr., 23, also of Fulton, as the alleged shooter. Police took him into custody without incident later that evening. Court documents indicate Caldwell faces charges including first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, and unlawful use of a weapon. He remained held without bond at Boone County Jail, with an initial court appearance set for the following week.
Police Chief Jill Schlude stated that the rapid response involved assistance from Boone County Sheriff's deputies, Missouri state troopers, and officers from nearby Ashland and Hallsville departments, as well as the University of Missouri Police. The motive behind the violence remained under investigation, but authorities noted that Hawkins knew the other victims as friends and had no romantic connection to Caldwell.
A close friend of Hawkins, Emily Meyer, who had known her for three years, described the victim as a compassionate person with a deep affection for animals and a strong desire to pursue a career in nursing. Meyer recalled Hawkins' aspirations for independence, including owning a home and building a stable future centered on helping others. "She was the kind of person who brightened every room," Meyer said, expressing shock over the sudden loss.
Community members expressed concern over the violence in the east-side neighborhood, prompting police to urge residents with doorbell camera footage or other information to come forward. Tips could be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers, with potential rewards offered for leads aiding the case.
As the probe continued, officials emphasized their commitment to public safety, thanking local agencies for their support in securing the scene and apprehending the suspect promptly. The incident marked the city's first homicide of the year, heightening calls for vigilance among residents.
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