The chief deputy of the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office has been placed on paid administrative leave after his AR-15 duty rifle accidentally discharged last week in the parking lot of MacArthur Early Childhood Center in Macomb. No injuries were reported.
According to the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office, its chief deputy is Adam Cremer.
MacArthur Early Childhood Center serves approximately 130 students aged three to five, according to the school district’s website.
Sheriff Nick Petitgout said in a release, “This never should have happened. The safety and security of students and school personnel is our highest priority. We are grateful that no one was physically harmed, but we recognize the concern and fear this caused within the community.”
In response, the Sheriff’s Office has:
- Requested an outside agency to investigate the incident.
- Placed the involved deputy on administrative leave.
- Initiated a comprehensive review of firearm handling policies.
- Launched a safety audit of law enforcement practices in and around schools to ensure the highest standards of care.