Six people were killed in a shooting spree at multiple locations in what police described as a domestic dispute.
The suspected gunman died from a self‑inflicted gunshot wound as officers confronted him, police said.
According to police, the “series of homicides” occurred Monday at two homes and a business in Muscatine, Iowa, reports ABC News.
At a press briefing, Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies said, “Today I simply do not have the words — this act of evil and what it has done to our community.”
Four victims were found dead in one home after the shooting was reported at 12:12pm local time. The suspect, identified as Ryan Willis McFarland, 52, of Muscatine, left before police arrived. Officers located him nearby on a trail along the Mississippi River.
“While talking to Ryan Willis McFarland, he took his own life,” Kies said. “Officers and EMS personnel rendered aid. However, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.”
Detectives later discovered two more victims – one at another residence and one at a nearby business. Both men died from apparent gunshot wounds.
“Preliminary findings indicate the shootings stemmed from a domestic related dispute,” police said in a statement. “All victims are believed to be family members of the deceased suspect.”
Authorities have not released the names or ages of the victims. Kies said McFarland had a criminal record but gave no details. He added there is no active threat to the community.
The incident remains under investigation.
