Suspects Arrested for Shooting Incident in the 1900 Block of Bever Avenue SE

Cedar Rapids Police officers were dispatched on Saturday, July 31 at 1:44 p.m. to the 1900 block of Bever Avenue SE for a report of a disturbance involving a firearm.  Initial reports indicated the disturbance was between two males and one of the individuals had a firearm. 

Police arrived on scene to find three victims who had sustained gunshot wound injuries.  A 27-year old male identified as Darius Lamel Howard-Brandon, a 36-year old male identified as Jeremy Dell Hepker, and a 25-year old female sustained non-life threatening gunshot wounds. 

Hepker and the 25-year old female were transported to UnityPoint-St. Luke’s Hospital by Area Ambulance Service.  Both were treated and later released.  Howard-Brandon sustained a graze wound and would later be evaluated at the hospital. 

Investigators and patrol officers have been actively working the case, collecting evidence, and conducting interviews. 

As a result of the investigation, three individuals have been arrested.  

Lamel Lamont Brandon, age 45, was arrested for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Going Armed with Intent, and Intimidation with a Weapon.

Howard-Brandon was arrested for Going Armed with Intent.

Hepker was arrested for Going Armed with Intent and Intimidation with a Weapon.

All three suspects arrested were transported to the Linn County Correctional Center.

There is still an active investigation.  The shooting incident involves victims and suspects related to each other or in a former relationship. 

Disclaimer:  Any arrest and complaint information included above is based on the legal conclusion that, as with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.