A quiet Wednesday evening in Glenwood, Iowa, turned into a scene of horror as authorities responded to a deadly incident that left two individuals dead, one person critically injured, and a home engulfed in flames. Law enforcement officials have identified the suspect as Dennis Burrell, who is believed to have carried out the violent attack before setting fire to his own residence.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire and visible flames coming from the home. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a horrifying scene—two victims had been fatally shot, and another was clinging to life. The surviving victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
According to a neighbor who spoke with Channel2 NOW, gunshots rang out shortly before the fire erupted. The witness reported seeing Burrell outside moments before the blaze consumed the house, describing the situation as “chaotic and terrifying.” Other neighbors recalled seeing thick smoke and flames rising above the rooftops as fire crews battled the blaze.
Investigators believe the shootings were deliberate and that Burrell set fire to the house in an attempt to destroy evidence or as part of a planned act of violence. The motive behind the attack has not yet been confirmed, but authorities are interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and piecing together the timeline leading up to the tragic event.
The identity of the victims has not yet been released, pending notification of their families. Meanwhile, the community of Glenwood is reeling from the shock and grief of the incident. Local officials and residents alike have expressed their condolences to the families affected and have pledged support for those impacted by this devastating act.
Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation remains active. More details are expected to be released in the coming days.
This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly violence can shatter lives and disrupt the peace of even the most close-knit communities.