CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Cedar Rapids police say they are handling a vandalism case in which someone drew swastikas onto the Cedar Rapids sign by I-380. Police say they have no suspects. Cedar Rapids mayor Tiffany O’Donnell responded to the vandalism on Facebook, writing, “Following the discovery of swastikas on our Cedar Rapids sign: Symbols of hate have no place in our city. Not here. Not ever. The swastika represents terror and intimidation. Its purpose is to make people feel unwelcome and unsafe. It will not succeed. Cedar Rapids is stronger than hate. City crews will work to remove it alongside the Cedar Rapids Police who are investigating. To anyone who feels targeted: you belong here. And as your Mayor, I will always stand firmly against hate.”
MARION, Iowa (KCRG) – Authorities said no one was hurt after a garage fire in Marion Friday night. The Marion Fire Department was called to the 2400 block of 26th Ave. in Marion around 7:15 p.m. following reports of a fire in a garage attached to a house. Crews arrived to find flames and smoke coming from the garage. Crews were able to contain the fire to the garage. Everyone was able to get out of the home safely. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental due to an electrical appliance.
URBANDALE, Iowa (KCCI/KCRG) – Two juveniles were charged with first-degree murder Friday in the shooting death of a 14-year-old boy in Urbandale. Urbandale police charged a 14-year-old male and a 13-year-old male with first-degree murder Friday. Both had previously faced lesser charges in the case. Officers had responded to the Plaza Manor Apartments near Douglas Avenue and 64th Street just before 5:00 p.m. on February 22, where they found the 14-year-old victim dead from a gunshot wound in the parking lot. The 14-year-old suspect was previously charged with going armed with intent, aiding and abetting. The 13-year-old was previously charged with going armed with intent. The identities of the suspects and victim have not been released at this time. “Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting is a result of an altercation that occurred earlier in the day,” Urbandale police said in a statement. Police say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC/KCRG) – Three adults were found dead in a Mason City home Saturday, according to Mason City Police. Around 5:00 p.m. Saturday afternoon, emergency responders were sent to the 500th block of S. Adams after a report of unresponsive individuals in the home. Upon arriving, Mason City Fire Department and Mason City Police located three deceased adults inside the house. Police say there are no signs of foul play or struggle. An investigation is ongoing. No further information will be made available until Monday.
