MSHP: Fulton officer who shot Columbia man was threatened

FULTON, Mo. (KMIZ)

After investigating, the Missouri State Highway Patrol found that a Fulton Police Department officer was threatened before he shot and killed a Columbia man.

Police tried to stop Cody L. McCaulou, 25, of Columbia in the 700 block of Hickman Avenue due to suspicious activity, according to a news release from the MSHP.

"The specifics details about 'suspicious activity' will be addressed in the final investigative report that is submitted to the prosecutor," said MSHP Troop F spokesperson Sgt. Scott White.

McCaulou sped away from the scene, and after a short chase, the officer got out of his car trying to stop McCaulou. McCaulou then allegedly sped toward the officer, the release said.

The officer then shot his gun, hitting McCaulou who later died at University Hospital.

There were two other people in the car with McCaulou. They were not injured, the release said.

An autopsy was completed on Thursday, and the results were pending, the release said. MSHP is investigating the incident, and it has been handed over to a special prosecutor to determine whether or not criminal charges are warranted.

Callaway County prosecuting attorney Chris Wilson recusing himself from the investigation. Court records said Steve Sokoloff was appointed as a special prosecutor in this case.

Fulton police said the officer who shot the suspect is still on administrative leave.