COLUMBIA, Mo. — Columbia police have highlighted the effectiveness of Flock technology in identifying suspects related to a downtown shooting that occurred early on October 31. Police responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of North Eighth and East Walnut streets, where they found a 36-year-old woman suffering from a gunshot wound to her back. She was transported to a hospital and is currently in stable condition, according to a statement from the Columbia Police Department (CPD).
Following the incident, investigators utilized video footage to identify suspects, leading to the arrests of seven men and the detention of a 16-year-old boy. Those arrested include Iseah Jackson, Demarquen Allen, Kelvin Clark, Demarkus Cain, De’Koryion White, Treyvale Cain-Raybon, and Detravion Coats. They all face charges related to unlawful possession or use of a weapon.
Columbia Police Chief Jill Schlude noted that investigators faced significant challenges due to a lack of eyewitness cooperation, with only one person stepping forward with information. She emphasized the importance of video evidence in this case, stating, “For probably a decade now, we’ve had issues with juries who don’t want to convict just based on eyewitness testimony.” Schlude explained that eye witness accounts can be unreliable, particularly under stress, which highlighted the need for technological support in investigations.
Since early 2025, Columbia has employed automated license plate readers from the company Flock. These readers log vehicle license plate information into a searchable database. In addition, Flock technology is also utilized for live surveillance cameras, contributing to the city’s public safety efforts. During the investigation, a combination of license plate readings, city-owned safety cameras, and surveillance footage from private businesses led to the identification of vehicles that fled the scene of the shooting. The technology contributed to the recovery of 11 firearms within six days after the incident.
The Columbia City Council is scheduled to hold a public hearing regarding Flock cameras at 6 p.m. on Monday at City Hall. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe stated that the discussion will focus on balancing crime-fighting capabilities with the importance of protecting resident privacy. She noted the rapid identification of suspects stemming from the shooting and reassured the public that access to the surveillance system is restricted and only used for specific case numbers to prevent misuse.
City Manager De’Carlon Seewood expressed hope that the upcoming hearing will address concerns and misconceptions about Flock cameras, while also allowing CPD to explain their usage in criminal investigations. He mentioned that the city is exploring alternative technology options should the council decide against renewing its contract with Flock, emphasizing the goal of ensuring community safety without infringing on residents’ sense of privacy.
