In the quiet city of Columbia, Missouri, the evening of February 7, 2026, was shattered by an act of violence that claimed the life of 48-year-old Vasshon Haywood. At approximately 9:20 p.m., Columbia Police officers were dispatched to the 700 block of North Garth Avenue following reports of gunfire. The incident occurred at Oak Towers, a residential building for independent seniors.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered Haywood with a life-threatening gunshot wound.
Paramedics provided immediate medical attention and transported him to a local hospital. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Vasshon Haywood succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The investigation into the shooting led to the swift arrest of a suspect. Michael Dean Graham, a 66-year-old resident of Columbia, was taken into custody at the scene. Following the investigation by the Columbia Police Department, prosecutors are seeking multiple charges against Graham, including second-degree murder, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, stealing, possession of a controlled substance, and tampering with physical evidence. Graham is currently being held in the Boone County jail without bond. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have encouraged anyone with information to contact the Columbia Police Department or CrimeStoppers.
