Iowa City Police investigating Mercer Park shots fired incident

Cedar Rapids man allegedly on scene arrested on unrelated charges
Hunter
05/10/22

Iowa City police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect or suspects who fired shots during a large fight at Mercer Park Monday night.  A Cedar Rapids man who was allegedly on scene was arrested on unrelated charges nearby.

A release from the ICPD indicates that they responded to a report of the altercation at 7:57 pm and while on the way to the scene were advised that witnesses reported multiple shots fired.

Upon arrival at the park on Dover Street, police located evidence corroborating the reports. While conducting their investigation, they made contact with 21-year-old Marquise Hubbard of Cedar Rapids, who witnesses reported was trying to actively avoid law enforcement. He was detained in the area of 3rd Avenue and was reportedly in possession of a Palmetto 9mm handgun and over 9 grams of marijuana. He allegedly told officers that he was a drug user and last smoked marijuana the night before.

Hubbard was charged with Person Ineligible to Carry Dangerous Weapons and Marijuana possession. He could be sentenced to up to two years in jail if convicted. There is no indication that he fired his weapon during the altercation at Mercer Park.

No injuries have been reported; the incident remains under active investigation by the Police Department.

Authorities are encouraging anyone who has information about this incident to contact Iowa City Police at 319-356-5275.  Those with security cameras in the area are asked to review their footage from that time frame and contact police if that footage could help them in their investigation.

Tips and calls can also be submitted through Iowa City Area Crime Stoppers by using the P3 Tips app on your smartphone, going to iccrimestoppers.org, or by calling 319-358-TIPS. All calls and tips are held in confidence, anonymity is guaranteed, and those providing information do not have to reveal their identity.

A reward of up to $1000 is available for information that leads to an arrest.