Judge Assigned in Chesterfield Fatal Car Crash

A Chesterfield man charged with first degree involuntary manslaughter and second degree assault pleaded not guilty Wednesday in St. Louis County's 21st Circuit Court.

Patrick J. McCormick, 53, was arraigned (read the charges) and entered the not guilty plea in a routine procedure, his attorney Scott Rosenblum said.

Records show McCormick's case was on the afternoon docket assigned to Judge Maura B. McShane. McShane got a law degree from South Texas Law. She is the only woman among eight 21st circuit court judges in St. Louis County.

It was not yet clear when the next court date was set, or whether it would go to trial or be settled out of court. McCormick worked as director of facilities with Saint Louis University Hospital.

Police said McCormick was drunk August 26 when the SUV he was driving crossed into oncoming traffic on Wild Horse Creek Road and crashed head-on into the sedan of Chesterfield math teacher Janet Esrock—seriously injuring Esrock and her 16-year-old son.

Esrock, 50, died two weeks later from injuries and never had regained consciousness. Her son Jonathan was a passenger in the Esrock car and is still recovering from injuries, according to family postings online.

Esrock taught at Whitfield School in Creve Coeur, and coached girls sports.

McCormick is free on $100,000 bail.

McCormick was indicted by a grand jury October 19.