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Six killed in Muscatine shootings, suspect dead by suicide
Police in Muscatine, Iowa, confirmed six fatalities on Monday after a series of shootings tied to a domestic conflict. The suspected gunman, 52-year-old Ryan Willis McFarland, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Timeline of the attacks
Officers first responded to a shooting report shortly after noon. At a residential address, they discovered four victims with gunshot injuries, all pronounced dead at the scene.
McFarland had already fled the home. Police located him minutes later on a riverfront trail near a pedestrian bridge. Despite medical efforts, he was declared dead at the site from a self-inflicted gunshot.
(14:30) Detectives later identified a fifth victim inside a separate residence. A sixth body was found at a local business, described by online maps as a metal workshop.
Police statement and investigation
Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies labeled the incident an "act of evil." Preliminary findings suggest the violence originated from a domestic dispute, with all victims believed to be relatives of McFarland.
"Our hearts are heavy tonight after the tragic shootings that claimed innocent lives."
Muscatine Mayor Brad Bark, Facebook post
Kies confirmed McFarland had a prior criminal record but withheld further details. The names and ages of the victims remain undisclosed as the investigation continues.
Community impact
Muscatine, a city of approximately 23,500 residents along the Mississippi River in southeastern Iowa, is grappling with the aftermath. Authorities have not released information on potential motives beyond the domestic link.
