A series of random shootings occurred across various locations in the U.S. state of Iowa on Monday (June 1). At least seven people were killed in these incidents. The deceased include the suspected attacker.
Police stated that this series of killings took place across two homes and a business establishment in the city of Muscatine, Iowa.
In a statement, the Muscatine Police Department said that officers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting at a residence on Park Avenue in the city at approximately 12:12 PM local time on Monday.
Upon arrival, police and emergency responders discovered four individuals inside the home who had sustained gunshot wounds. Although attempts were made to rescue them while they were in critical condition, all four were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators have identified 52-year-old Ryan Willis McFarland as the suspected attacker. Police noted that Ryan had fled the scene before officers could arrive at the initial location.
Shortly thereafter, law enforcement officers discovered Ryan in critical condition near a pedestrian bridge. He had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound in an apparent suicide attempt. Despite efforts by police and paramedics to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Subsequently, investigators recovered the bodies of two additional individuals. One was found at a residence on Mill Street, and the other at a business establishment on Grandview Avenue. It is believed that both individuals died as a result of gunshot wounds.
Preliminary investigations by the police indicate that all of the victims were members of the suspected attacker’s family. Consequently, it is believed that the incident stemmed from a family dispute. Authorities have not yet released the names or ages of the victims.
Media reports suggest that Ryan had a prior criminal record; however, detailed information regarding these past offenses has not yet been disclosed.
Police stated that an investigation remains ongoing to determine the true motive behind the incident and to establish a full account of the attack.
