CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Authorities have identified 23-year-old Dedric Arnold of Cedar Rapids as the victim of a deadly shooting that occurred Wednesday afternoon near the intersection of 1st Avenue and 27th Street Northeast.
The Cedar Rapids Police Department (CRPD) confirmed that Arnold sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and later died from his injuries. His death has been ruled a homicide.
Police arrested 23-year-old Kaleek Lewis, also of Cedar Rapids, in connection with the shooting. Lewis now faces multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, going armed with intent, and use of a dangerous weapon in the commission of a crime.
The shooting unfolded around 4:30 p.m., during a busy time of day in the area. Nearby Trailside Elementary School was briefly placed on secure mode out of precaution, though students had already been dismissed for the day. The lockdown was lifted after police confirmed the situation had been contained.
Investigators have not released further details about what led to the shooting or a possible motive. CRPD said no additional information will be released at this stage due to the ongoing investigation.
The tragedy underscores growing concerns about gun violence in Cedar Rapids, where officials and community leaders have urged residents to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.
For Arnold’s family and friends, the sudden and violent loss is devastating. At just 23 years old, his life was cut short, leaving loved ones and the wider community grieving.
Meanwhile, Lewis faces a potentially lengthy legal process. Under Iowa law, first-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence without parole if convicted.
Police continue to investigate and are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
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