Update: Columbia Police arrest suspect for murder following shooting on North Garth Avenue

Columbia Police have arrested Michael Graham, 66, of Columbia, for the murder of Vasshon Haywood, 48, of Columbia, following a shooting Feb. 7 in the 700 block of North Garth Avenue.

Haywood died at a local hospital of injuries sustained in the shooting. Next of kin has been notified.

Columbia Police arrested Graham on charges of second-degree murder, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, stealing, possession of a controlled substance, and tampering with physical evidence.

At about 9:20 p.m. on Feb. 7, Columbia Police responded to a shots fired call in the 700 block of North Garth Avenue. Police officers located Haywood with an apparent gunshot wound. He was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7652. To provide information without leaving your name or number, call CrimeStoppers at 573.875.8477 or visit http://www.p3tips.com/899. If you provide information to CrimeStoppers that leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.

Case Number 2026-001143

Previous release:

Columbia Police respond to shooting on North Garth Avenue

Missouri statutes:

565.021 - Murder in the second degree

571.015 - Armed criminal action

571.030 - Unlawful use of a weapon

570.030 - Stealing

579.015 - Possession of a controlled substance

575.100 - Tampering with physical evidence

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To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.