by Jefferson City, Missouri — A senior track athlete at Lincoln University has been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend, who was also a student-athlete at the same school.
Denita Jackson faces second-degree murder and armed criminal action charges in the death of 23-year-old Kevaughn Goldson, according to the Jefferson City Police Department and the Cole County Prosecutor’s Office. She is currently being held without bond.
Victim Identified as Senior Track Athlete
Goldson, a senior and member of the men’s track and field team, was originally from Kingston, Jamaica. Jackson, also a senior and women’s track athlete, is from Berbice, Guyana.
According to court documents, police were called to Jackson’s residence after she allegedly reported that she had been involved in a disturbance and had stabbed her boyfriend.
Officers found Goldson with a stab wound to the chest and another to the back, along with minor injuries consistent with a struggle.
Goldson was transported to a local hospital before being airlifted to another medical center, where he later died during surgery.
Alleged Altercation Inside Residence
A probable cause statement indicates that Jackson admitted to stabbing Goldson during a confrontation at her off-campus residence.
Jackson reportedly told police the couple had been in a “volatile relationship” for years and had prior domestic disputes. The most recent altercation allegedly stemmed from an argument over a broken bottle of cologne.
According to court records, Jackson suspected Goldson of being involved with one of her roommates. She allegedly forced entry into the roommate’s room and found Goldson there, leading to a physical fight.
Jackson claimed Goldson pinned her down and choked her during the struggle. She told investigators she then grabbed a knife from under the bed and stabbed him in the back and chest before calling 911.
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The roommate reportedly witnessed part of the incident, though authorities have not released the witness’s identity.
University Responds
In a statement, Lincoln University said it is aware of the off-campus incident and expressed condolences.
“Our thoughts are with family, friends, faculty, staff, and all who have been impacted by this tragic situation,” the university said.
The university also reminded students and staff that counseling services are available.
The case remains under investigation, and no court hearings have yet been scheduled. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support resources are available in your area.
As this case moves through the legal system, the university community and families involved continue to process the tragedy.
If you have thoughts on campus safety, relationship violence prevention, or support systems for student-athletes, share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
