DUNKERTON, IOWA – This Northern Iowa man held police at bay for nearly five hours before law enforcement specialists convinced him to throw in the towel and surrender.
On May 18, 2025, at about 6:46 PM, Black Hawk County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to 205 E. Williams Street in Dunkerton, Iowq, after it was reported that 74-year-old James Parizek was threatening the reporting party with a gun. When deputies arrived, Parizek was pointing a gun in their general direction while making threatening statements. The deputies were able to get the reporting party outside to safety, and a short time later they heard what appeared to be a gunshot coming from inside the house. Several homes in the area were evacuated to ensure the safety of those residents.
The Black Hawk County SWAT, Negotiation, and Aeriel Response Teams were called in along with officers from several other agencies. After approximately five hours of speaking with Parizek, negotiators were able to convince him to exit the house and turn himself over to law enforcement. He was subsequently taken to a local hospital for evaluation. The incident remains under investigation regarding any possible criminal charges.
“I am extremely proud of how every officer here handled this incident. A volatile situation like this can go wrong in so many ways:. but everyone was patient, communicated well, and worked together to make sure we got the best possible outcome. Our specialty teams train together several limes per year for scenarios such as this, and that training was on full display tonight. They truly did an amazing job,” said Sheriff Nate Neff.
“I would also like to extend my thanks to the Dunkerton Kwik Star as well as some other citizens who donated food and drinks to the officers after we had been there for several hours. Those gestures mean more to us than you realize; we can’t thank you enough for your support!” said Sheriff Neff.
The Black Hawk County Sheriffs Office was assisted by the Dunkerton, Evansdale. Waterloo, and Cedar Falls Police Departments, the Iowa State Patrol, and the Dunkerton Fire and Rescue Department.