Police in Muscatine, Iowa, are investigating a mass shooting that left six people dead, including the suspect who took his own life. Officers responded to a property in the city, roughly 50 miles southeast of Cedar Rapids, where they discovered four people fatally shot, according to Police Chief Anthony Kies.
The suspect, identified as 52-year-old Ryan Willis McFarland, was located on a trail within the city. When confronted by police, McFarland turned the gun on himself. 'While talking to Ryan Willis McFarland, he took his own life,' Kies said at a press conference.
Two further men, believed to be relatives of McFarland, were later found dead at separate locations across the city. One was discovered at his home, while the other was found inside a business premises. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims.
Kies described the incident as an 'act of evil' and said he did not have words to express the tragedy. The local police department is continuing to investigate, processing crime scenes and conducting interviews. Officers have urged anyone with information to contact the major crimes unit.
Kies confirmed that McFarland had a criminal record but declined to provide further details. The investigation is ongoing.
