Shooting at Maquoketa Caves State Park; 4 Dead
According to reports, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation confirms an active investigation is underway following a shooting at the Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground on this morning (Friday 7/22).
Authorities responded to the area, northwest of Maquoketa at 6:23 am, where they were actively searching for a suspect. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation said officers found three dead bodies at a camp site. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation has confirmed that the three victims are from the same family and were found in the same tent. The victims have been identified as a family from Cedar Falls 42-year-old Tyler Schmidt, 42-year-old Sarah Schmidt, and 6-year-old Lulu Schmidt. Their 9 year old son Arlo survived the attack, and is safe.
Officials said one camper was missing. He was later identified the suspect as 23-year-old Anthony Sherwin, of Nebraska. Officers later found the suspect dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have not released a possible motive. Investigators don't believe he had any prior relationship with the victims,
As of now the campground has been evacuated and will remain closed until further notice. Camp Shalom was also evacuated. Children and their counselors were holding camp this week. The camp has confirmed that all attendees are safe and accounted for. Stay here for more updates.