OELWEIN, Iowa (KCRG) – An apartment building in the heart of Oelwein was still empty over 36 hours after inspectors found several structural problems, prompting an evacuation. After having to evacuate their homes, residents living in the historic building, known as Hotel Mealy, gathered less than a block away at the American Legion before being temporarily moved to nearby hotels. As many wondered what was next, a structural engineer conducted a walkthrough the entire building on Monday afternoon with the Oelwein city inspector to note all of the current cracks and structural flaws that initially caused the evacuation, as well as anything else that is at risk. As those inspections and evaluations are set to continue in the coming days, many are relieved to hear residents are safe and tribute their security to the city’s prompt reaction. If, or when, residents will be able to move back in is still unknown.
MOUNT VERNON, Iowa (KCRG) – One person was injured after losing control of their vehicle and crashing into a ditch in Linn County on Monday. The Linn County Sheriff’s Office said it happened in the 1000 block of Mount Vernon Road at about 4:35 p.m. First responders said the driver of a Toyota Prius was heading westbound on Mount Vernon Road when the vehicle went into the ditch, vaulted a driveway and hit a mailbox before coming to a stop in a ditch. The driver, who was cited for failure to maintain control of the vehicle, is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
ALLAMAKEE COUNTY, Iowa (KCRG) – The Allamakee County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help as it investigates a vehicle theft. In a press release, the sheriff’s office said someone stole a Silver 2013 Chevrolet Impala bearing Iowa license plate ISY671. The sheriff’s office warned not to approach the vehicle if you see it, but to call the sheriff’s office at 563-568-4521 or 911.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – A Chicago man is facing multiple charges after police said he threatened to blow up St. Luke’s Birth Center in Cedar Rapids and then led them on a car chase on Friday. In a criminal complaint, police said they were called to St. Luke’s Birth Care Center, at 150 11th Street NE, where Brandon Burkett allegedly made the threat while talking to nursing staff about his newborn baby. Police said Burkett has previously been warned about trespassing at the medical center. Burkett is charged with eluding while exceeding the speed limit by 25 mph or more, interference with official acts and threatening a place with an incendiary or explosive device, among other charges.
