IOWA CITY – Police in Iowa City caught a youth who they believe fired a handgun in the popular downtown area.
On July 27th, at approximately 1:37:15 AM, Iowa City Police Officers on foot patrol heard the sound of gun shots emitting from the pedestrian mall area near the area of the 100 block of East College. After rapidly responding to the direct area where the shots were being fired, at 1:39:40 AM Iowa City Police Officers took Eldra Scott Jennings Jr, age 17, into custody. At the time Jennings was taken into custody, he was found in possession of a handgun. Upon further investigation into this matter, it was determined that Jennings was not from Iowa City and felt threatened by another group. As the situation escalated, Jennings allegedly brandished the weapon and fired several shots into the air to frighten the other group. The ongoing investigation into this matter has determined that Jennings was the lone shooter in this matter and the Iowa City Police Department is no longer seeking a second suspect. It is now known that Jennings was an escapee from the Eldora State training school for Boys and wanted on a nationwide warrant.
He has been charged with Reckless Use of a Firearm (Simple Misdemeanor), Carrying Weapons (Aggravated Misdemeanor), Going Armed with Intent (Class D Felony), and Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon (Class C Felony).
Downtown Iowa City continues to grow and attract thousands of residents and visitors each day. The Iowa City Police Department remains vigilant in its commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. This commitment has been reflected in falling crime rate trends throughout the community.
“The City Council is absolutely committed to ensuring that downtown is safe at all times,” stated Mayor Matt Hayek. “I know our Police Department will handle this incident swiftly and professionally. Reckless, criminal behavior like this will not be tolerated, whether downtown or in any other neighborhood of Iowa City.”
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