A prosecution witness in Columbia’s Plush Lounge murder trial describes the deadly May 2023 shootout outside the club on the Business Loop as “sounding like a war.”
A Boone County jury heard from prosecution witnesses Tuesday in Kimo Spivey’s trial. The 35-year-old Spivey is charged with first degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and other felonies for the death of 26-year-old Melvin Hooker III that night.
Steven Grimes, who worked security at Plush and who testified for the prosecution under a plea agreement, testifies that he saw Melvin Hooker beating his girlfriend that night outside the lounge, smacking and punching her. Grimes testifies he asked Hooker to leave, and that they tussled briefly before things calmed down for a short time.
Grimes testifies that the shooting started shortly after that, telling the court that he saw Kimo Spivey fire his gun. Under the law, Spivey could not legally possess a gun that night because he was already a convicted felon. Grimes testifies two bullets went past his head that night, and that Kimo Spivey was shot in the back. Grimes admits returning fire that night during the chaotic shootout, and it’s unclear who he was firing at. Hooker was shot and killed near his vehicle and four others were wounded in the shootout, including Spivey.
Grimes testifies that in return for his plea agreement for tampering and for testifying, prosecutors agreed to recommend probation for him.
The jury also heard from Columbia Police crime scene investigator Danielle Clifton. The jury saw photos of Melvin Hooker’s vehicle, which had bullet holes in it and blood on the front seat, door handle and hood. The photos also showed a Glock and a 45-caliber gun that were reportedly recovered from Hooker’s vehicle. Spivey’s attorneys are arguing self-defense.
The jury will hear from additional prosecution witnesses this (Wednesday) morning. It’s unclear if Kimo Spivey will take the witness stand.
