Crime
Suspect and victim identified after head-on crash on Highway 218 in Iowa
Officials stated that no one was injured in the initial shooting incident that prompted the pursuit.
A police pursuit in Iowa ended in tragedy Sunday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of both the fleeing suspect and an innocent driver.
The Muscatine Police Department reported that the pursuit began around 3:15 p.m. on Highway 218 after receiving reports of a woman allegedly firing a gun at individuals in the area.
Officers attempted to stop the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Brittany Miles, but she refused to pull over, initiating a high-speed chase.
During the pursuit, Miles drove into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with another vehicle.
Authorities confirmed that Miles died at the scene from the impact of the crash.
The driver of the other vehicle, identified as 27-year-old Olivia Alvarez, was critically injured. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Alvarez succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
One officer involved in the pursuit sustained injuries after losing control of his patrol car and crashing. He was transported to a hospital for treatment and is expected to recover.
Officials stated that no one was injured in the initial shooting incident that prompted the pursuit.
The double fatality has deeply affected the local community, raising concerns about public safety during high-speed pursuits.
Authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the events leading up to the crash, including the circumstances of the reported shooting and the pursuit.
The Muscatine Police Department extended condolences to the families of both victims and has urged anyone with additional information to contact them as the investigation continues.
Crime
Ohio Shooting Leaves Suspect and 4-Year-Old Girl Dead, Officer Injured
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
COLUMBIANA COUNTY, OH – A tragic shooting incident in Calcutta on Wednesday afternoon resulted in the deaths of a suspect and a 4-year-old girl, while a police officer remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery.
According to St. Clair Township Police Chief Brian McKenzie, officers responded around 2 p.m. to reports of a suicidal male walking down the street with a firearm.
Upon locating the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Joseph Como, officers attempted to make contact.
“Almost immediately, the man pulled a weapon and opened fire on my officers,” McKenzie stated. “Officers returned fire, striking the suspect.”
During the exchange of gunfire, 4-year-old Rosalie Carey, who was inside a nearby business, was tragically struck by a stray bullet.
She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries later in the evening, authorities confirmed.
Como was also fatally wounded during the shootout and pronounced dead at the scene.
One St. Clair Township police officer Dakota Wetzel sustained gunshot wounds and was airlifted to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he underwent emergency surgery.
Chief McKenzie reported that the officer is currently in stable condition and is receiving medical care.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with our injured officer and the family of the young girl whose life was tragically lost,” McKenzie said. “Right now, we are working diligently to gather all the facts and keep the community informed.”
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has assumed responsibility for the case and is conducting a thorough review of the incident. Counselors have been made available to support the officers involved.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the St. Clair Township Police Department.