Teenager stabbed in midst of apparent drug-related altercation
The Columbia Police Department received a 911 call at about 9:25 p.m. Tuesday from a man who said he was in the middle of the 600 block of Claudell Lane and had just been stabbed.
The victim, 19-year-old Damoris Pierce, had multiple stab wounds to his body, according to a CPD news release. Although it was not supported by evidence found during the investigation, Pierce told officers he had been walking down the street and was attacked for no reason. He was subsequently taken to the hospital, where his condition remains unknown, but not life-threatening. Pierce is not an MU student.
Officers then canvassed the area and found a disturbance had occurred in the basement of 607 Claudell shortly before the police arrived. A blood trail was then found that led to an apartment and Pierce was contacted again. The residence – where officers said an apparent disturbance had definitely occurred – was searched to locate any other victims in need of help, and Robert Shavers, 31, was found in the process. Officers believe Shavers was involved in the altercation. In addition, evidence – including the knife that was believed to have been utilized in the assault – was located and a search warrant was obtained.
Shavers was taken to the police department and questioned by investigators, when he indicated the cause for the assault was an argument over a drug debt. Pierce refused to disclose any additional information.
The investigation is still underway and no arrests have been made.