The Boone County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the death of 37-year-old Brian Young following a shooting in the parking lot of Lakeview Mall on Thursday night. According to Captain Brian Leer, the incident began as a disagreement inside Jake’s Bar and Grill, located near the mall, and escalated into a fatal shooting in the parking lot.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly before 9:50 p.m. and transported Young to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The Sheriff’s Office has not yet confirmed if any suspects are in custody.
A significant crime scene was established in the mall's parking lot at the 5600 block of Clark Lane. Crime scene tape cordoned off a large area as investigators meticulously searched for evidence using flashlights. The scene was heavily populated with Boone County deputies, Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers, Columbia police officers, and Boone County firefighters.
Witnesses reported that patrons inside Jake’s Bar and Grill were instructed to stay indoors while the investigation took place. As of 10:20 p.m., patrons remained inside the bar, with investigators working outside. By 10:34 p.m., deputies began removing the crime scene tape, and several evidence boxes were loaded into a patrol vehicle.
The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incident and seeking assistance from the public. They encourage anyone with information about the events leading up to the shooting to contact them. Authorities are committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including identifying any potential suspects and determining a motive.
As the investigation continues, the Sheriff’s Office emphasizes the importance of community cooperation. They thank the public for their support and cooperation and pledge to provide further updates as more information becomes available. The incident has left the community in shock, and law enforcement is dedicated to ensuring that justice is served for Brian Young.
Further details, including potential suspects and the motive for the shooting, are expected to be released as the investigation progresses. The Boone County Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident and bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding Young's death.