Trial set for 2026 for man accused of killing Hermann police sergeant

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A jury trial has been set for 2026 for the man accused of shooting and killing a Hermann police sergeant in March.

Kenneth Lee Simpson, 35, of Steelville, was charged with first-degree murder, two counts of armed-criminal action, first-degree assault, two counts of unlawful gun possession, unlawful possession of an illegal weapon, possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest.

A jury trial date was set for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026-Feb.6, 2026.

Simpson is currently being held at the Crawford County Jail without bond.

An order for a change of venue was granted last month. The case is being moved from Gasconade County to Franklin County.

Simpson is accused of killing Mason Griffith and injuring Adam Sullentrup by shooting them on March 12 at a Casey’s in Hermann.

Police caught Simpson following a more than 12-hour standoff.

The state of Missouri, on Sept. 14, filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Simpson.