COLUMBIA, MO – A University of Missouri freshman has been expelled from campus and is facing a string of criminal charges following a pair of disturbing confrontations that began with a dispute on Snapchat, police said.
Maxwell Warren, 18, was taken into custody this week and is now being held without bond at Boone County Jail. Authorities allege that Warren’s actions escalated from social media hostility to violent encounters within just over a month, triggering an emergency ban from the university grounds and sparking concerns among students.
The initial confrontation unfolded in late September when police say Warren stormed a fellow student’s dorm room after realizing he had been blocked on Snapchat. Upon forcing his way inside, Warren allegedly wrapped his hands around the student’s neck and delivered a chilling ultimatum, insisting his victim reconnect on the platform. The student complied, but the incident left visible red marks and a shaken campus community.
Investigators say the situation was far from over. Days later, Warren reached out by Instagram, expressing regret for his earlier actions. Yet, according to police records, the remorse appeared short-lived. A new argument erupted over Snapchat in which Warren allegedly threatened more violence, telling the student he would not hesitate to repeat the assault.
Nearly a month later, the drama took a darker turn. On October 29, Warren visited the same student’s room once again, with the student’s permission. Police reports describe Warren as possibly under the influence when he arrived. When the student refused Warren’s sexual advances and asked him to leave, Warren allegedly reacted violently, strangling the student until they lost consciousness and began shaking uncontrollably. The student later told police they made it clear to Warren that any further contact was unwelcome.
That very night, Warren was allegedly involved in another incident in a campus parking garage. Witnesses reported seeing him push a woman to the ground. Although Warren insisted he had been attacked first, campus surveillance footage reportedly contradicted his account, showing Warren as the aggressor and another individual intervening to end the altercation.
Warren now faces three counts of domestic assault, including one for causing serious physical injury, and a count of burglary. His next court date is set for November 10, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for December 9.
The university responded swiftly, issuing a campus-wide ban that prohibits Warren from attending classes, participating in activities, or entering university property. Administrators underscored that any attempt by Warren to return would result in immediate arrest by campus police.
Campus officials have reaffirmed their commitment to student safety, reiterating that all reports of violence or harassment are taken seriously and addressed in accordance with both university policy and the law.
At this time, authorities are urging anyone with additional information or concerns related to Warren’s actions to come forward as the investigation continues. Warren remains in jail awaiting further legal proceedings, with no bond and no comment yet from his legal counsel.