A beloved resident of Fulton, Missouri, Brianna N. Hawkins, has sadly passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026. The 21-year-old died at a Columbia hospital after being one of three people shot in a domestic violence-related incident at an apartment complex on Clark Lane. According to the Columbia Police Department, police responded around 9 p.m. to The Greens apartments in the 4800 block of Clark Lane after receiving reports of gunfire.
The suspected shooter, 23-year-old James Lamont Caldwell Jr., also of Fulton, was arrested at the scene. He now faces multiple serious charges, including murder and first-degree assault. Police Chief Jill Schlude stated that the case is being investigated as a domestic violence crime. Two other individuals, who have not been publicly identified, suffered life-threatening injuries in the same shooting and were transported to a hospital. Court documents reveal that one of these victims was also stabbed.
Brianna Nicole Hawkins was born on August 19, 2004, in Columbia, Missouri, to Wade Hawkins and Brenda (McMurray) Hawkins. She was lovingly raised by her father and his wife, Heather. Those who knew her described a kind and caring young woman with a huge heart for her family and a gentle spirit reflected in her love for the color purple, lilies, and daisies. A close friend remembered her as a beautiful soul, a lover of animals, and someone who aspired to become a nurse.
She is survived by her parents; her brothers, Dylan, Noah, and Hunter; her sister, Isabella; and her grandparents, as well as many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Nick Miller. The Hawkins family will receive friends for a visitation on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Maupin Funeral Home in Fulton.
A memorial service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the same location, with Pastor Bruce Williamson officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to Maupin Funeral Home to assist with expenses. The sudden and violent nature of her death has reignited public discussions in Columbia about community safety and responses to violent crime.
The Columbia Police Department continues to investigate the shooting and has asked anyone with information, including residents with potential doorbell camera footage, to contact them or Columbia CrimeStoppers, where tips may be eligible for a cash reward. The incident marked the second reported gun violence case in Columbia in two days, bringing renewed attention to public safety concerns in the community.
