Clinton officer’s widow files wrongful death lawsuit

The widow of a Clinton police officer killed last week has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the accused killer.

Cresinda Michael, the wife of officer Gary Michael, Jr., filed the lawsuit Friday afternoon in Henry County. Ian McCarthy, the 39-year-old man suspected of shooting the policeman on Aug. 6, is the only defendant named so far.

The petition, written by attorney James Johns, claims McCarthy’s actions were “intentional, malicious, and in disregard for the life and safety of the decedent.” The lawsuit also said Cresinda Michael “has been deprived and will continue to be of the love, support, comfort and companionship of her husband.”

Gary Michael had been a police officer for less than a year in Clinton. He had three children and one grandchild.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested McCarthy on Aug. 8 in Henry County. Authorities said McCarthy shot Gary Michael during a traffic stop early Aug. 6 in Clinton. Troopers found McCarthy with a gunshot wound. McCarthy has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

A second man, William Noble, has been charged for trying to get rid of the weapon McCarthy used.