Police seek 17-year-old for attempted murder in shooting near University of Iowa, authorities say
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Police are searching for a 17-year-old on attempted murder charges following a shooting. Shooting early Sunday in the nightlife district near the University of Iowa campus, authorities said Wednesday.
Five people, including three University of Iowa students, were treated for gunshot wounds. A woman was in critical condition Wednesday after suffering a life-threatening head injury, Iowa City Police Chief Dustin Liston said.
Authorities stated that an arrest warrant was issued for the 17-year-old youth who was allegedly involved in the fight, and that reports showed that up to 40 people may have been involved in the fight. Officers were dispatched to the shooting and arrived within 45 seconds, Liston said.
The suspect allegedly fired six times into the crowded pedestrian area after moving away from other attendees, Liston said. Iowa City’s downtown pedestrian mall is filled with shops, bars, and restaurants.
Johnson County attorney Rachel Zimmermann Smith said the minor, who lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, will initially be charged as an adult for coercive felonies against an individual 16 or older, as required by Iowa law.
He said charges, including five counts of attempted murder, would be brought when the suspect is caught.
Liston said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are expected. Nearly three dozen search warrants have already been executed.
“We will continue to work tirelessly to hold those responsible fully accountable,” he said, adding that anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspect is encouraged to come forward.
Liston said the five victims were “not the target of the gunfire.” “We have no reason to believe they are otherwise connected to the fight that preceded the shooting.”
Liston also detailed the injuries of four other victims, one shot in the arm and chest, two in one or both legs, and one in the side of the abdomen. One was hospitalized in stable condition and all three were released, he said.
