‘People just came together’: Community rallies to support Mascoutah shooting victim’s family

While a 51-year-old man is recovering from being shot in the chest during an apparent burglary in Mascoutah on the first night in his home, there’s been an outpouring of support from the community for his family.

Supporters are delivering meals to his wife and two sons. Volunteers have helped set up furniture in their home.

“People just came together to help them,” said Ellen Thieleman, who rented the home to the family and had helped them move in on Friday.

That evening, the victim decided to spend the night alone to watch their belongings, Thieleman said. They moved here because his wife, a chaplain with the U.S. Army, was just transferred to Scott Air Force Base from Texas.

Police Chief Bruce Fleshren said the victim was in critical but stable condition in a St. Louis hospital. He was shot early Saturday in the home on South Market Street.

Fleshren said investigators have only had a brief talk with the victim and do not have a detailed description of the suspect.

The home did not appear to be occupied at the time, which might have led to the burglary attempt, police said.

Thieleman said she started an account at www.mealtrain.com on Monday to coordinate when people can deliver meals. She spread the word on Facebook and with officials at the base.

Supporters have signed up to bring the family dinner through Dec. 20.

Thieleman, who first met the family about two weeks ago and became friends with them, said she was surprised how fast people began to help.

“I thought, ‘Wow, that was quick,’” she said.

For more information about how to help the family, contact Thieleman at windsweptwellness@gmail.com.

Fleshren said police have “limited” information to release, and officers are continuing their effort to develop leads.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Mascoutah Police Department at 618-566-2255.

This story was originally published November 25, 2015 at 2:27 PM with the headline "‘People just came together’: Community rallies to support Mascoutah shooting victim’s family."