MSHP: Fulton officer-involved shooting investigation follows strict protocol
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is following protocol to the letter as it continues its investigation into a Dec. 30 officer-involved shooting in Fulton, according to an agency spokesperson.
Sgt. Scott White told ABC 17 News Monday the process is far from over.
"We're only eight days into the investigation, and we still have a lot of information we have to obtain from not only witnesses but also the officer and any physical evidence that was seized that day," White said.
The shooting fatally wounded Cody McCaulou, 25, who died hours after being rushed to the University Hospital in his hometown of Columbia.
The MSHP's Division of Drug and Crime Control released its initial findings Friday, which said McCaulou failed to yield to a traffic stop and later threatened a Fulton police officer behind McIntire Elementary School.
"At the conclusion of that pursuit, the officer exited his vehicle and was on foot when the car accelerated towards him and the officer fired his weapon," White said. "So, the driver was struck and was transported to the hospital with serious injuries."
Family members of McCaulou question the Patrol's narrative, saying the 25-year-old was attempting to flee the scene and never meant to harm the officer.
Investigators performed an autopsy Thursday, the results of which are "pending," according to the patrol.
"These officer-involved shootings are very difficult," White said. "They're very emotional, what the officers go through, what the families of the other person go through. But in these cases, the general procedure is followed every single time."
White said that procedure includes securing the scene, taking photographs, video-reconstructing the scene, talking to the officer and witnesses and then also obtaining any other evidence which may include third party video footage.
The backside of McIntire Elementary School is equipped with security cameras, one of which is aimed directly at the place where McCaulou's car crashed into the building. Fulton police officers are also equipped with body cameras.
White did not confirm whether any specific video evidence was obtained.
"Once we have completed the final, comprehensive report, we submit that to the prosecutor and then he makes the final call on case determination," White said.
Callaway County prosecuting attorney Chris Wilson recused himself from the investigation. Court records said Steve Sokoloff was appointed as a special prosecutor in the case.
