GLENWOOD, IOWA — August 7, 2025- A quiet evening in Glenwood was shattered by violence and flames as local law enforcement responded to a horrifying scene at 409 North Grove Street. What began as an active shooter call escalated into a fatal tragedy, leaving two people dead, another critically injured, and a neighborhood shaken to its core. Authorities have now confirmed the identity of the suspect as Dennis Burrell, a resident of Glenwood.
According to Glenwood Police Chief Eric Johansen, officers from the Glenwood Police Department and the Mills County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched shortly before 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening in response to a reported shooting. Upon arrival, first responders were met with chaos—smoke billowing from the residence and multiple gunshot victims located on the property.
Chief Johansen, speaking at a press conference late Wednesday night, confirmed that two individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third victim is currently in critical condition, receiving emergency care at a local hospital. Their identities have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
The suspect, now identified as Dennis Burrell, was taken into custody at the scene without further incident. Burrell is believed to have intentionally shot the victims before setting the residence ablaze, an act that compounded the already dire situation for emergency responders.
Eyewitness accounts have begun to surface. A neighbor, speaking with Channel2 NOW under anonymity, reported hearing multiple gunshots followed by screams, and then noticing flames erupting from the house. “It was horrifying,” the neighbor recalled. “We didn’t know what was happening. I called 911 as soon as I heard the shots, and then we saw the fire. It was like something out of a nightmare.”
Officials have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack, but investigators believe the shooting was targeted and that Burrell knew the victims. Glenwood police and the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office are conducting a joint investigation into both the homicide and arson components of the case. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has also been called in to assist.
“This is a devastating event for our community,” Chief Johansen said. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and we are working around the clock to bring answers and justice.”
The house at 409 North Grove Street remains an active crime scene, with police tape cordoning off the area and investigators combing through the charred remains for evidence. Forensic teams are expected to remain on-site for several days as they process the scene.
While Burrell’s criminal history has not yet been made public, authorities have confirmed he was known to law enforcement prior to this incident. Charges are pending, and officials say they anticipate filing multiple counts, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and arson.
The community of Glenwood, a small town in Mills County with a population of just over 5,000, is reeling from the shock of the violence. Community members have already begun organizing vigils and support for the affected families, many of whom are known locally.
Local schools and community centers are preparing to offer counseling services to those affected by the tragedy, especially children who may have witnessed emergency response efforts or who knew the victims personally.
“This is a dark day,” said Mills County Supervisor Elaine Gardner. “But Glenwood is a strong town. We will come together, support one another, and stand with the families who are now grieving such unimaginable loss.”
Law enforcement is asking anyone with additional information, surveillance footage, or knowledge of events leading up to the shooting to come forward.
More details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Glenwood Police Department at (712) 527-4844 or Mills County Crime Stoppers.
This story is developing. Check back for updates.
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