Post Date: April 22, 2026

Case Number: 2026003915

Police have identified a suspect and filed several charges following the shooting in the Downtown Pedestrian Mall on Sunday, April 19.

The suspect, 17-year-old Damarian M. Jones of Cedar Rapids, has not been caught yet. Police are asking for the public’s help to find him.

What Happened?

• The Fight: Around 1:45 a.m. on Sunday, a fight involving up to 40 people broke out on East College Street.

• The Shooting: During the fight, Jones reportedly got a gun from someone else. He walked away from the group, turned around, and fired six shots into the crowd.

• The Response: Police arrived within 45 seconds of the call. By 1:50 a.m., the University of Iowa sent out a Hawk Alert to warn students.

The Victims

Five people were hit by bullets. Police say none of them were the target of the shooting—they were innocent bystanders.

• 1 person is in critical condition with a head injury.

• 2 people have serious injuries and needed multiple surgeries.

• 2 people have bodily injuries but are expected to recover.

The Charges Against Damarian M. Jones

Because of the investigation, Jones faces these serious charges:

• Attempted Murder (5 counts)

• Assault Causing Serious Injury (3 counts)

• Assault Causing Bodily Injury (2 counts)

• Going Armed with Intent

What’s Next?

• More Patrols: To make the downtown area safer, extra officers from the University of Iowa Police will join Iowa City Police on patrols every Friday and Saturday night.

• Search Continues: Police have already searched nearly 36 locations and looked at over 150 tips. They expect to make more arrests soon.

How You Can Help

If you know where Damarian M. Jones is, or if you have video from that night, please contact the authorities:

• Call Police: 319-356-5275

• Crime Stoppers (Anonymous): 319-358-TIPS (8477)

• Reward: You could receive up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest. You do not have to give your identity.