UPDATE: The suspect was reportedly taken into custody following a lengthy standoff with police near the original scene.
HERMANN, Mo. - One officer is killed, another in critical condition following a shooting Sunday night inside a gas station.
The incident reportedly occurred around 9:30 p.m. at a Casey’s on Highway 19 when police responded to a disturbance call. Investigators allege 35-year-old Kenneth Simpson shot both officers, fled the scene, and barricaded himself inside a residence across the street from the gas station. A standoff with police is reportedly ongoing.
Both officers were transported to an area hospital following the incident. Authorities confirm Hermann officer Mason Griffith died. The second officer was later airlifted to a St. Louis hospital.
“Hermann Police Department Detective Sergeant Mason Griffith will never be forgotten, and Missouri will always be grateful. Teresa and I are praying for Mason’s family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers,” tweets Gov. Mike Parson.
A Casey’s spokesperson released the following statement regarding the incident:
“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the officers who were involved, their families, and everyone at the Hermann Police Department. Our team is grateful for the work these officers do to keep our community safe. The store team members were unharmed and the store is currently closed. We are working with the authorities to provide any information or assistance they may need as they investigate this incident.”
