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Shots fired near schools

Several rounds put schools on lockout

Shots fired in the 600 block of North 22nd Street early Thursday afternoon led schools to a precautionary lockout, according to the Fort Dodge Police Department.

Multiple calls to the Webster County Telecommunications Center were received at approximately 1:35 p.m. reporting gunfire in the area of Dodger Townhomes, a two-block townhouse complex. Police say information provided indicated that five to 10 shots were fired.

No injuries were reported, but one vehicle was reported as having damage from the incident.

Police could not confirm whether the owner of the vehicle or any nearby witnesses were intended targets of the incident.

Police arrived on the scene within minutes, and were informed by witnesses that two individuals were seen in the area, one of whom was believed to be handling a handgun, just prior to shots being fired.

FDPD said in a press release that the individuals were reported as having left the area to the south immediately after shots were heard. The only descriptors given to police were that they were black males in dark clothing. Police did not find anyone in the immediate area matching that description.

Due to the proximity to Fort Dodge Senior High School, St. Edmond Catholic Schools, Cooper Elementary School and Duncombe Elementary School, police advised schools to proceed with a precautionary lockout. A lockout allows classes to continue as usual but prohibits anyone from entering or leaving the building. Schools were on lockout for about 45 minutes.

Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying those responsible for the shooting.

“This was a brazen act of violence that took place in the middle of the day, while school was in session nearly a block or two away” said Capt. Ryan Gruenberg, public information officer for FDPD. “We feel there are those within the community that have knowledge of this incident and those involved.”

Those with knowledge of the incident are encouraged to contact the Fort Dodge Police Department at 515-573-2323. Those with tips can also anonymously contact Webster County Crime Stoppers by calling 515-573-1444 or texting “LEC” to CRIMES (274637).

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