GLENWOOD, IOWA – Authorities are investigating a chilling incident that occurred on Wednesday evening, resulting in two fatalities, one critical injury, and a house reduced to ashes. The suspect, identified as Dennis Burrell, is believed to have shot the victims before setting fire to his residence in a tragic sequence of events that has left the Glenwood community in shock.

Glenwood Police Chief Eric Johansen confirmed the details during a late-night press conference, revealing that officers responded to a report of an active shooter at around 7:56 p.m. The scene unfolded at a residence located at 409 North Grove Street, where police found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Tragically, two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third was transported to the hospital in critical condition. As of now, the identities of the victims have not been released pending notification of their next of kin.

The Deadly Sequence of Events

According to local reports, prior to the shooting, there were disturbing noises heard, including what sounded like an explosion, followed by gunfire. Witnesses also reported seeing the residence engulfed in flames shortly after the incident. It is believed that Burrell intentionally set the house on fire after shooting the victims.

Community Responds to Tragedy

The violence occurred while the city of Glenwood was hosting a nearby community event, and emergency response teams, including officers from the Mills County Sheriff’s Office, were dispatched immediately to the scene. Law enforcement acted swiftly, and despite the unfolding chaos, there were no additional injuries reported.

Emergency crews managed to contain the blaze quickly, though the structure was heavily damaged. Firefighters worked in coordination with law enforcement officers to secure the area, preventing further harm to residents and ensuring that the fire was completely extinguished. Law enforcement agencies, including Iowa State Patrol, assisted in securing the neighborhood.

Investigation and Suspect in Custody

During a press briefing, Chief Johansen described the situation as an “isolated incident,” confirming that Dennis Burrell, the suspect, was in custody. He assured the public that there was no ongoing threat to the community and that the situation was under control. Authorities were also assisted by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), who immediately began conducting a thorough forensic assessment of the scene to uncover further details regarding the crime.

Burrell’s Motive remains unclear at this time, as investigators are still piecing together the events leading up to the shooting and the subsequent fire.

The Aftermath: Investigators Examine Evidence

Following the violent confrontation, investigators began to process the crime scene. The Iowa DCI agents are conducting a full forensic investigation to determine the sequence of events. According to Chief Johansen, the case remains under active investigation, and further updates are expected once the site has been processed.

While the exact cause of the explosion and fire is still under review, neighbors have reported seeing Burrell leaving the scene before the authorities arrived, and some suggested that the fire might have been set deliberately in an attempt to destroy evidence.

Community’s Response and Road Closures

In the wake of this horrific incident, local residents have expressed shock and disbelief. Many described Burrell as a private person who kept to himself. One resident, who declined to be named, mentioned that the neighborhood had never experienced anything like this before, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the violence.

Authorities have implemented road closures along Elm Street and North Myrtle Street between 4th and 5th Streets, as the investigation and cleanup efforts continue. These restrictions were expected to be lifted by Thursday morning.

A Unified Response from Law Enforcement

Chief Johansen expressed his gratitude for the swift response from local law enforcement agencies. He particularly highlighted the coordinated effort between the Glenwood Police, Mills County Sheriff’s Office, and other state agencies. “This incident demonstrated the strength of our coordinated response,” Johansen remarked, adding that the situation could have been far more tragic had it not been for the timely intervention of these agencies.

No Further Threat to the Community

At this time, law enforcement officials have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The suspect, Dennis Burrell, is in police custody, and authorities believe the incident to be isolated, with no other suspects at large.

Burrell is expected to face charges related to homicide, attempted homicide, and arson, though formal charges have not yet been filed. His motives remain under investigation, and law enforcement officials are working to understand the full context of the events that transpired.

Victims’ Identities withhold Pending Family Notification

As mentioned earlier, the identities of the two victims who lost their lives in the shooting have not been disclosed, as authorities are working to notify the next of kin. The third victim remains in critical condition, and their identity has also been kept private for the time being.

The police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. Glenwood Police Department has provided contact details for tips or inquiries at 712-527-4844.

A Community in Mourning

The Glenwood community has been left reeling from the senseless violence that unfolded in their midst. Local residents have rallied together, offering support to those impacted by the tragedy, with several residents expressing concern over the emotional toll this incident will take on everyone involved.

Counseling services are being made available to residents in the aftermath of the shooting, and local leaders are calling for unity as the investigation continues. Residents are encouraged to support one another and offer assistance to those struggling with grief in the coming days.

Continued Investigations and Updates

The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement agencies continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Police have promised to keep the public informed as new details emerge from the investigation.

Calls for Justice and Safety

As authorities continue their work, the Glenwood community is holding its breath, hoping for justice for the victims. The community has called for transparency in the investigation and for swift action to ensure that Dennis Burrell is held accountable for his actions.

“This tragedy has left us all in shock,” said Chief Johansen, adding that the support of the community and law enforcement will be crucial in ensuring the responsible closure of the case. “We will do everything in our power to bring justice to the victims and their families,” he said.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help ensure the safety of the Glenwood community.

For those seeking more information or updates on the ongoing investigation, stay tuned to local news outlets and the Glenwood Police Department’s official channels.

Conclusion

The Glenwood shooting, which claimed the lives of two individuals and left another in critical condition, is a reminder of the profound impact that such tragedies have on communities. The authorities continue to investigate, and while the suspect is in custody, questions remain about the underlying motives behind this devastating incident. The community remains hopeful for justice, and the family of the victims, along with the entire town, will likely continue to mourn the senseless loss for years to come.