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

CLAYTON, Mo. -- A former St. Louis County police officer, Matthew McCulloch, was sentenced to five years of probation for a disturbing incident during a Halloween event. In October 2023, while off-duty and attending a school-sponsored trick-or-treating event in Kirkwood, McCulloch fired a gun into the air and made alarming threats, claiming people were going to die.

McCulloch, 40, had pleaded guilty in January to several charges, including six counts of endangering the welfare of a child, one count of making a terroristic threat, and another for unlawful use of a weapon. His plea deal led to the dismissal of several charges, but there was no sentencing recommendation from the prosecution.

The chaotic scene unfolded as McCulloch harassed event attendees, threatening them verbally. Following an altercation, during which he was pushed to the ground, he brandished his handgun and badge before discharging his weapon multiple times, prompting widespread panic among trick-or-treaters.

Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident, but the psychological impact on witnesses, especially children, was significant. St. Louis County prosecuting attorney Melissa Price Smith expressed relief that no physical harm occurred and hoped the sentence would provide some closure to those affected.

After the event, police confirmed that McCulloch was no longer employed by the department, though further details regarding his departure were not disclosed. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities held by those in law enforcement, even when off-duty.