On November 9, 2013, at just after midnight, Jefferson City Police were called to McDonald's on Jefferson Street regarding a robbery that occurred at that location. Detectives were contacted and began an investigation into the robbery.
On November 16, 2013 at just before midnight, Jefferson City Police responded to a call of shots fired in the 700 block of Madison Street. When officers arrived at the scene, four (4) persons were found to have suffered gunshot wounds. Jefferson City Police Detectives again responded and began their investigation.
Through investigative efforts and leads that were developed during the course of both investigations, it was found that a connection existed between the two. Further investigative efforts pointed to a primary suspect, who was later located on November 18th.
The suspect, Joseph A. Cotton, 26, of St. Louis, Missouri, was arrested for Assault 1st Degree for the shooting in the 700 block of Madison, Robbery 1st Degree for the McDonald's South incident, and two unrelated outstanding warrants. One of the warrants was for a Probation and Parole Violation for Burglary, and the other was a Jefferson City Municipal Warrant for No Insurance.
Cotton was transported to the Cole County Jail.
The investigation in the robbery is still continuing with regard to other potential suspects.