UPDATE: Columbia White Castle murder suspect to go on trial in March

By Brian Hauswirth
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A March 2027 jury trial is now set for a Columbia suspect charged with murder for the 2024 deadly shootout in the White Castle parking lot on Clark lane.

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26-year-old Antoine Armstrong is charged with second degree murder and four other felonies (2026 mug shot courtesy of the Boone County Sheriff Department’s website)

26-year-old Antione Armstrong is charged with second degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and three other felonies for the shooting death of 56-year-old Louis Hart. Armstrong, a convicted felon, is not allowed to possess firearms.

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Crime scene tape surrounded Columbia’s White Castle on Clark lane on May 17, 2024, after two men were shot in the parking lot. One later died. (May 17, 2024 file photo courtesy of 939 the Eagle’s Cosmo)

The Columbia Police Department’s probable cause statement says Armstong and Hart became involved in a physical disturbance outside White Castle in broad daylight in May 2024. A witness says Armstrong tried to hit Hart, who then apparently shot Armstong. The witness says Armstong, while on the ground, shot back at Hart.

Armstrong’s next court appearance will be next Monday November 2. Judge Stephanie Morrell will preside during the trial.