A juvenile has been taken into custody following a violent incident Tuesday afternoon in Burlington that involved an assault and a firearm discharge.
According to the Burlington Police Department, officers were called to the 1500 block of Thul Street at approximately 2:26 p.m. on March 10th after receiving reports of a large fight and a gunshot being fired.
When officers arrived on scene, they located a juvenile victim who had reportedly been pistol whipped by another juvenile with a handgun. During the assault, police say the suspect struck the victim with the firearm, causing it to discharge. The round struck a nearby residence. Authorities reported that no individuals were struck by gunfire.
While investigating the incident, a Des Moines County deputy observed a vehicle leaving the area with several juveniles inside. Deputies conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle near Highway 99 and Tama Road for a traffic violation.
During the stop, law enforcement located the juvenile suspect along with a firearm inside the vehicle.
The juvenile suspect has been charged with willful injury, going armed with intent, aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon, reckless use of a firearm causing damage, and persons ineligible to carry a dangerous weapon.
Police say the incident appears to be isolated and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The suspect was transported to the Lee County Juvenile Detention Center and is currently being held without bond.
The Burlington Police Department was assisted in the investigation by the Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities remind the public that a criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.