A former St. Louis police officer is sentenced to probation for shooting at trick-or-treating event

A former police officer from St. Louis County, Matthew McCulloch, has been sentenced to five years of probation for endangering children during a trick-or-treating event in October 2023. McCulloch, 40, pleaded guilty earlier this year to charges that included making a terroristic threat and unlawful use of a weapon, stemming from an incident where he fired a gun into the air and shouted threats at event attendees.

The incident took place during a school-sponsored Halloween event in Kirkwood, where hundreds of families were present. Authorities reported that McCulloch, who was off-duty and attending with his family, started harassing attendees by declaring, "You are all going to die." Following a confrontation where a man pushed him to the ground, McCulloch revealed his handgun and shot into the air approximately a dozen times.

As panic ensued, trick-or-treaters sought safety, while several individuals managed to subdue McCulloch and confiscate his weapon. Fortunately, no one sustained injuries, but the emotionally distressing event traumatized many participants, especially children.

St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith expressed gratitude that no physical harm resulted from the incident and highlighted the emotional impact on victims. She referred to the court's decision as a step towards closure for those affected.

Following the incident, police confirmed that McCulloch was no longer employed by the department, but details regarding his resignation remain undisclosed. The case has raised concerns about the responsibility and accountability of law enforcement officials in civilian settings.