July 22, 2022
Iowa – An Iowa State Patrolman walks past a Maquoketa Caves State Park sign as police investigate a shooting that left several people dead, Friday, July 22, 2022, in Maquoketa, Iowa. The campground was evacuated in the wake of the shooting
Officers responded to reports of the shooting at the Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground before 6:30 a.m. Friday, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation said in a statement. Officers found three people fatally shot in a tent at the campground, DCI assistant director Mitch Mortvedt said.
Armed DNR conservation officers monitored the eastern entrance to the park, which was blocked off Friday afternoon. It will remain closed through at least July 28, DNR spokesperson Tammie Krausman said.
“All camping reservations have been canceled and refunded from last night through Thursday at this time,” she said. “Campers have been notified.”
Iowa DNR Director Kayla Lyon released the following statement Friday afternoon:
“I, as well as the DNR staff, am devastated for the families impacted by the tragic incident at Maquoketa Caves State Park. Our long standing tradition of enjoying Iowa’s natural wonders was shaken today, but the legacy for the millions of families that recreate at Iowa State Parks will continue.
This heartbreaking incident hits home for the DNR family; not only as people who are passionate about getting folks outside, but as people who regularly camp with our families at these same parks.
“We appreciate the collaborative work between local law enforcement, the Iowa Department of Public Safety and the DNR State Parks staff and conservation officers on this investigation.”
The three victims were related, Mortvedt said. He did not provide their names or ages, explain how they were related or provide a motive for the killings.
@CopyRights Raw_News1st
