MAQUOKETA, Iowa (KWQC) – Three people are dead after a shooting at Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground Friday morning.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and DCI responded around 6:23 a.m. to the campground for a report of triple homicide, according to a media release. Officers later confirmed they found three people dead.
According to DCI, officers learned that a camper was unaccounted for, later identified as 23-year-old Anthony Orlando Sherwin.
After searching the area Sherwin was found dead west of the park, according to DCI. Sherwin appears to have suffered from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
DCI said there is no danger to the public.
It is unclear if there is a connection between the suspect and victims at this time.
The Maquoketa Caves State Park is closed until further notice, DCI said. The investigation is ongoing.
The Iowa DNR Director Kayla Lyon said She and the DNR staff are devasted for the families impacted by the incident.
“Our long standing tradition of enjoying Iowa’s natural wonders was shaken today, but the legacy for the millions of families that recreate at Iowa State Parks will continue,” Lyon said. “This heartbreaking incident hits home for the DNR family; not only as people who are passionate about getting folks outside, but as people who regularly camp with our families at these same parks.”
Please see below for a statement from DNR Director Kayla Lyon on the tragic incident today at Maquoketa Caves State Park.
Please note that the park is closed at this time until further notice. pic.twitter.com/FN22X3ldCd
— Iowa DNR (@iowadnr) July 22, 2022
“I’m horrified by the shooting this morning at Maquoketa Caves State Park and devastated by the loss of three innocent lives,” Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds said in a statement. “As we grieve this unimaginable tragedy, Kevin and I pray for the victims’ family members and the law enforcement officers who responded to the scene. We ask Iowans to do the same.”
“I’m closely monitoring situation in Maquoketa Caves State Park. Praying for the lives lost & their loved ones Im grateful for Iowa law enforcement who responded +camp staff for ensuring safety of other campers Violence can’t be tolerated Killing innocent ppl is sickening,” Chuck Grassley said on Twitter.
I’m closely monitoring situation in Maquoketa Caves State Park. Praying for the lives lost & their loved ones Im grateful for Iowa law enforcement who responded +camp staff for ensuring safety of other campers Violence can’t be tolerated Killing innocent ppl is sickening
— ChuckGrassley (@ChuckGrassley) July 22, 2022
Camp Shalom was evacuated at 9:15 a.m. due to the situation, parents were notified and a pick-up site was established. All campers have been accounted for, according to Camp Shalom Program Director Ben Carlson.
This is a developing story. TV6 will provide updates on-air and online.
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