LINN COUNTY, IOWA — Authorities in Linn County are releasing the names of three people who were killed and a fourth who was injured in an apparent attack on Thursday near Marion. The charges against the alleged assailant, 34-year-old Luke Truesdell, have been amended to include three counts of First Degree Murder.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office reports it was dispatched to 3699 E. Otter Road outside the city of Marion on Thursday on a report of multiple injured people. Officers found four individuals suffering from what are described as severe injuries. Three of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene:
- Romondus Cooper, 44, of Cedar Rapids
- Keonna Ryan, 26, of Cedar Rapids
- Amanda Parker, 33, of Vinton
Additionally, 34-year-old Brent Brown of Marion remains hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities say all of the victims suffered blunt force injuries to their heads from a metal pipe.
According to the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, they are investigating possible motives including that the crime was committed in hopes of inspiring a movie. Authorities say their investigation continues but no additional arrests are expected. Truesdell remains held in the Linn County Jail without bond.