CLAYTON, Mo. — St. Louis County Police Chief Kenneth Gregory sent an email to his department two days after one of his officers allegedly fired shots into the air and threatened to kill everyone at a children's Halloween event.
In the email, Gregory included contact information for the department’s Wellness Unit and Employee Assistance Program and said it is a "disappointment” when an officer’s actions are contrary to the oath they take to protect and serve the public.
"While I am aware that extenuating circumstances may have been a contributing factor in this weekend’s incident, there is still no excuse for what transpired," Gregory wrote without elaborating.
In court filings, the officer, Matthew McCulloch, has agreed that he is in need of “urgent mental health evaluation and treatment.” The 39-year-old is facing 11 criminal charges following the shooting, which happened at about 6:30 p.m. Sunday at a middle school parking lot in Kirkwood.
Hundreds of parents and students had gathered for the trunk-or-treat event, including McCulloch, who was there with his own family.
Witnesses told police and 5 On Your Side that moments before McCulloch allegedly fired the shots, he yelled, "You're all going to die." He then allegedly threatened a woman, and her husband shoved McCulloch to the ground. When he stood up, he lifted his shirt to show his badge and pointed his gun in the air, according to court documents.
He fired at least a dozen rounds, according to court documents.
McCulloch has been a St. Louis County police officer since 2017 and was suspended without pay Monday.
He is currently at the St. Louis County Justice Center in Clayton with a $500,000 cash-only bail. He entered a not-guilty plea to the charges against him during an arraignment Tuesday.
A bond reduction hearing is scheduled for next week.
Court records show McCulloch got divorced earlier this year, and he has no criminal history.
He is also the son of former St. Louis County Prosecutor Robert “Bob” McCulloch.
Read the full text of Gregory’s letter to the department below:
“Good afternoon, Department Family,
“As many of you are aware, one of our officers was involved in an incident over the weekend in the City of Kirkwood. While we are relieved that no one was injured, the reprehensible actions of our officer cannot be overlooked.
“In this profession, we have a sworn duty to protect and serve the citizens of St. Louis County and we take that oath seriously. When an officer’s actions are contrary to that oath, it is a disappointment, to say the least. We understand how important it is for the trust of our citizens and each other to remain intact in order to fulfill our promise to serve and protect.
“While I am aware that extenuating circumstances may have been a contributing factor in this weekend’s incident, there is still no excuse for what transpired. The Department will follow proper procedures and continue to investigate this matter internally.
“Law enforcement is not an easy line of work, and its compounding factors can often exacerbate our personal and family challenges. That’s why I encourage you to be an eye and ear for your fellow co-workers. We have an active Wellness Unit, Chaplain’s program, Peer Support Program, and Employee Assistance Program ready to serve any employee who may have personal or mental health concerns. Please utilize them.
“In closing, we remain committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and service both to our citizens and each other. I am grateful for every officer and professional staff member who show up each day and perform your duties with honor and pride.
“Thank you. Take care of each other and yourselves and be safe.”
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