A campus stabbing has left a Missouri university reeling after a college track athlete was allegedly killed by his girlfriend. The stabbing occurred off Lincoln University’s campus in Jefferson City and resulted in the death of 23-year-old senior sprinter Kevaughn Goldson.
Police responded Monday morning to a residence where Goldson was found with stab wounds to his back and chest. Authorities transported him to Capital Regional Emergency Room before airlifting him to University Hospital. He later died during surgery.
Lincoln University released a statement following the tragedy. “Our thoughts are with family, friends, faculty, staff and all who have been impacted by this tragic situation,” the university said. “The well-being of our university community is our greatest priority. Students and employees are reminded of counseling and other support services for those who need them.”
Cole County prosecutors charged Denita Jackson, 27, with second-degree murder and armed criminal action. Court documents state Jackson believed Goldson was having an affair with one of her roommates. Investigators allege she used a hair clip to unlock the roommate’s door after hearing voices inside. She reportedly found the two in bed, both clothed, and confronted Goldson.
According to court records, Jackson grabbed Goldson by the shirt and a bottle of cologne before a struggle began. Authorities allege Goldson began choking Jackson, prompting her to retrieve a knife from under the bed and stab him.
Jackson called police following the incident. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the confrontation. Goldson, a Jamaican native, previously competed as a middle-distance runner before transitioning to sprinting for the Blue Tigers.
