GLENWOOD, IOWA — Authorities have officially identified the victims of Wednesday evening’s tragic shooting and house fire in Glenwood as Stevie Rockwell and her husband, Brandon Oman. The devastating incident, which occurred at 409 North Grove Street, left both victims dead and one other individual in critical condition. The suspect, Dennis Burrell, is believed to have shot the victims before setting fire to his residence.
The sequence of events unfolded shortly before 8 p.m., when Glenwood law enforcement responded to reports of an active shooter at the residence. According to a neighbor who spoke with Channel 2 NOW, Burrell shot Stevie Rockwell and Brandon Oman before intentionally setting fire to the house. The fire engulfed the property, causing significant damage.
Investigation Details and Law Enforcement Response
Glenwood Police Chief Eric Johansen confirmed the situation during a late-night press conference. He revealed that the Glenwood Police Department, in collaboration with the Mills County Sheriff’s Office, quickly responded to the scene. The officers worked to secure the area and apprehended a person of interest connected to the case, who was later identified as Burrell.
Chief Johansen stressed that the shooting was an isolated incident and assured the community that there is no ongoing threat to the public. He stated, “This has been determined to be an isolated incident, and the situation is under control.” The investigation continues, with assistance from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the Mills County Sheriff’s Office.
The structure fire that followed the shooting is currently being treated as part of the ongoing investigation. Law enforcement officials are closely examining the fire’s connection to the shooting.
Collaboration Among Law Enforcement Agencies
In his remarks, Chief Johansen commended the swift and coordinated response from multiple law enforcement and emergency personnel agencies. Many of these personnel were attending a community event just blocks away when the shooting occurred, yet they acted quickly to manage the situation. “It demonstrated the strength of collaboration among agencies,” Johansen said, noting the critical involvement of the Iowa State Patrol and local partners in securing the area and preventing further harm.
The community’s quick and collective response to the crisis was praised, with Chief Johansen highlighting the importance of such collaboration in ensuring safety and security during critical events.
Road Closures and Ongoing Investigation
As a result of the incident, road closures have been implemented at Elm Street and North Myrtle Street, between 4th and 5th Streets, to allow law enforcement and emergency crews to manage the situation. Authorities expect these closures to be lifted by Thursday morning, once the scene is cleared and processed.
In the meantime, authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Glenwood Police Department at 712-527-4844.
Victim Identification and Community Impact
Authorities have released the names of the victims — Stevie Rockwell and her husband, Brandon Oman — but the identity of the third individual, who remains in critical condition, has not been disclosed at this time. The community has been left shaken by this senseless violence, and local residents have expressed their shock and grief over the tragic event.
Chief Johansen noted that a full forensic investigation is underway to piece together the details of what led to the shooting and fire. While the authorities have confirmed the involvement of Dennis Burrell, the exact motivations for his actions remain unclear, and further updates are expected once investigators have completed their analysis.
Community Support and Grieving
The Glenwood community has rallied around the victims’ families, offering condolences and support during this difficult time. Residents have expressed disbelief at the violence that unfolded so suddenly in their town, emphasizing that it is a tragedy that will be felt for years to come.
Counseling services are being made available to those affected by the incident, and community leaders are urging people to support one another as they come to terms with the loss of Stevie Rockwell and Brandon Oman.
Call for Information and Continued Updates
As investigators continue their work, local authorities are encouraging anyone with further information about the incident to reach out to the Glenwood Police Department. This investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement officials have assured the public that updates will be provided as soon as new details are available.
The tragic loss of Stevie Rockwell and Brandon Oman has left a deep mark on the community of Glenwood, and all efforts are focused on bringing justice to the victims and their families. Local residents and law enforcement alike are committed to ensuring that this senseless violence is fully addressed and that all involved are held accountable.
Conclusion
The Glenwood shooting and subsequent fire have left the community grieving and searching for answers. As the investigation continues, authorities are working tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the events that took place on Wednesday evening. Dennis Burrell, the suspect in this case, remains in custody, and authorities are continuing to examine all the evidence at their disposal. The Glenwood community stands together, mourning the loss of two lives, while hoping for a full investigation and justice for the victims