Columbia’s Paris and Vandiver intersection

Columbia Police capture one suspect, after rolling gun battle on busy road

November 29, 2022 By Brian Hauswirth

43-year-old Montrez Ricketts is currently jailed without bond in Boone County (November 29, 2022 photo courtesy of the Boone County Sheriff’s website)

Criminal charges are pending against a Columbia man following Monday morning’s rolling gun battle on Paris road, north of I-70.

It happened at about 11:20 am near the busy Paris and Vandiver intersection. While there were no injuries, one of the vehicles involved in the incident crashed near the Break Time convenience store.

Columbia Police have captured 43-year-old Montrez Ricketts. They’re seeking first degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action charges against Ricketts. CPD detectives say other suspects involved in the incident have been identified, adding that the investigation continues.

Columbia Police are also thanking community members who assisted them with the investigation. They encourage anyone with information to call CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS.

Safety improvement recommendations coming soon for Columbia’s Paris road

November 23, 2022 By Brian Hauswirth

Motorists travel on Columbia’s Paris road (Route B), near Gerbes (July 2022 file photo courtesy of Columbia Public Works spokesman John Ogan)

A roadway safety audit continues on Columbia’s heavily-traveled Paris road, from Oakland Church road to the Business Loop.

Numerous safety complaints from 939 the Eagle listeners about the Paris Road and Vandiver intersection this summer helped prompt the roadway safety audit. Columbia Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI) president Stacey Button says Route B is an important corridor, adding the safety concerns are important as well.

“I think the next steps in the process really are to evaluate what those observation days showed and then bringing in engineers and make some recommendations so that improvements can be made ultimately,” Button says.

Several 939 the Eagle listeners have called for Columbia to eliminate the flashing left turn light at Paris and Vandiver, following the July death of motorcyclist Mark Lamont.

Button spoke on 939 the Eagle’s “CEO Round Table.” Click here to listen to the full interview.

Columbia looking at safety issues along Route B corridor

July 19, 2022 By Brian Hauswirth

Motorists, passengers, truck drivers, transit users, pedestrians and anyone who uses heavily-traveled Route B in Columbia is encouraged to attend today’s (Tuesday) community stakeholder meeting at United Community Cathedral. That’s on Towne drive near Domino’s Pizza, and the meeting begins at 5:30. A roadway safety audit is underway on the Route B corridor from Oakland …