GLENWOOD, IOWA — A horrific act of violence shattered the quiet community of Glenwood on Wednesday evening, as authorities say a man opened fire inside a home, killing two people, critically injuring another, and then setting the residence ablaze.
The suspect, identified as Dennis Burrell, is now in custody. Law enforcement believes he acted alone in what investigators are calling a calculated and deadly attack.
Scene of Violence Unfolds on North Grove Street
Police and first responders rushed to the scene at 409 North Grove Street just before 8:00 p.m., following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and smoke. Upon arrival, officers discovered a chaotic scene: gunshot victims, flames erupting from the structure, and neighbors fleeing in panic.
Two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene. A third victim was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Their identities have not been released pending family notifications.
“This is a dark day for our community,” said Glenwood Police Chief Eric Johansen during a late-night press conference. “Lives were taken in a brutal and senseless manner, but thanks to the rapid response of law enforcement and emergency services, the suspect is no longer a threat.”
Explosion, Gunshots Heard by Neighbors
Residents in the neighborhood described hearing more than one explosion, followed by a rapid series of gunshots before flames overtook the home. One witness told Channel2 NOW that they believed the suspect shot the victims before deliberately igniting the blaze.
“When we heard the shots, we didn’t know what to think,” one neighbor said. “Then the fire started, and everything happened so fast. It was terrifying.”
Swift Law Enforcement Response Credited with Containment
Officers from the Glenwood Police Department and Mills County Sheriff’s Office were among the first on the scene, along with units from the Iowa State Patrol who happened to be attending a nearby community event. Their close proximity allowed for a rapid, coordinated response.
“This incident could have escalated even further had it not been for the heroic actions of our officers,” Chief Johansen said. “Their bravery and coordination helped secure the scene and prevent additional casualties.”
Burrell was apprehended without further incident. Police have not yet revealed a motive but say this was an isolated act of violence.
Home Destroyed, Crime Scene Under Forensic Review
The residence where the violence occurred was severely damaged by fire, with much of the structure collapsing in the aftermath. Investigators from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) are conducting a full forensic sweep of the property and surrounding area.
As part of the investigation, road closures were implemented along Elm Street and North Myrtle Street, stretching between 4th and 5th Streets. Those are expected to be lifted by Thursday morning.
“This is an active and evolving investigation,” Johansen said. “We are working closely with state and local agencies to determine exactly what happened and why.”
No Ongoing Threat to the Community
Officials have reassured residents that there is no further threat, and that the suspect acted alone. However, the emotional toll on this tight-knit town is already being felt.
“This kind of violence is not who we are,” said one city council member. “But today, we mourn. And we will come together to support those impacted.”
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Glenwood Police Department at (712) 527-4844.