Iowa, USA: A series of shootings shook the U.S. state of Iowa on Monday (local time), leaving at least seven people dead, including the suspected gunman.
According to authorities, the suspect allegedly shot and killed six people before turning the gun on himself as police closed in. Investigators believe the incident may have stemmed from a family dispute.
Multiple Shooting Scenes Across Muscatine
The tragic incident occurred in Muscatine, Iowa, where the gunman reportedly opened fire at two homes and a local store.
Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies said officers received reports of gunfire around noon. By the time police arrived, several victims had already died. Four bodies were initially discovered at one of the crime scenes.
The suspect had fled before officers reached the area.
Suspect Identified
Police identified the suspect as 52-year-old Ryan Willis McFarland.
A search operation was launched, and officers eventually located him. However, just as authorities were about to apprehend him, McFarland reportedly shot himself.
Chief Kies said:
“Officers and medical personnel attempted to save him, but he died at the scene.”
Additional Victims Found
As the investigation expanded, police received reports of additional shootings at other locations.
Authorities later discovered two more victims at another residence and a nearby store. All victims died from gunshot wounds.
Family Dispute Suspected
In a press release, Muscatine Police stated:
“Preliminary investigation indicates that the shootings were the result of a domestic dispute.”
Investigators also believe that all of the victims may have been related to the suspect.
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances and motive behind the deadly shooting spree.