HASTINGS — The man charged with fatally shooting a Mendota Heights police officer is being held on at least $2.5 million bail.

Police said Brian Fitch Sr., 39, is accused of killing Officer Scott Patrick during a traffic stop July 30. Fitch had three warrants out for his arrest at the time.

The day before the shooting, Fitch told his ex-girlfriend that he was willing to use deadly force on police, according to court documents. The woman told investigators that Fitch sounded weird and angry when she spoke with him, reports said. She also said Fitch had been using methamphetamines every day.

Fitch faces life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder, reports said.

Fitch slumped in silence during a Friday hearing, and defense attorney Lauri Traub questioned whether he was coherent enough to understand the proceedings. She said he had recently taken pain medication.