Police in Muscatine, Iowa, believe the suspect in the fatal shootings of six people is a relative who took his own life when confronted by police officers on Monday
Police at the scene of the shooting(Image: WQAD)
Police are investigating the fatal shootings of six people, believed to have been killed by a relative who then took his own life.
Officers were called to a property in Muscatine, Iowa roughly 50 miles (80 kilometres) southeast of Cedar Rapids, where four people were discovered fatally shot, Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies revealed at a press conference.
Officers subsequently located the suspect, 52 year old Ryan Willis McFarland, of Muscatine, on a trail within the city, Kies confirmed – when confronted by police he then turned the gun on himself.
“While talking to Ryan Willis McFarland, he took his own life,” he said.
Two further men, also believed to be relatives of McFarland, were later discovered fatally shot at separate locations across the city, according to Kies.
One man was found at his home, while the other was discovered dead inside a business premises, he added.
Authorities are yet to release the identities of the victims or any further details about them.
“Today I simply do not have the words,” said Kies. “This act of evil and what it has done to our community.”
The local police department is continuing to investigate the shootings, working to process the crime scenes and carry out interviews. Officers have urged anyone with information to get in touch with the major crimes unit.
Kies confirmed that McFarland had a criminal record, but declined to share any further details.
