Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Iowa Deputy Justified in Shooting Suspect Accused of Random Grocery Store Killing

An Iowa deputy has been deemed justified in shooting Nathan Russell, the man accused of fatally shooting a grocery store worker at random. Delaware County Attorney John Bernau has determined that Deputy Matt Menard’s actions were reasonable and necessary to protect his own life and the lives of nearby citizens.

Russell, 39, is currently in jail facing first-degree murder charges along with other offenses. His next court hearing is scheduled for January 5. No immediate response was received from his attorney when contacted on Friday.

The incident took place on November 7, when Aaron McAtee, a 48-year-old employee at Fareway Meat and Grocery store in Monticello, Iowa, was shot near a loading dock. Monticello is a small town in eastern Iowa with a population of approximately 4,000. Police Chief Britt D. Smith described the incident as an “act of random violence.”

McAtee was immediately airlifted to a hospital, but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

Following investigations, it was determined that Nathan Russell, a resident of East Dubuque, Illinois, was the prime suspect. Law enforcement authorities initiated a search for Russell, who was eventually spotted by a Delaware County deputy in Hopkinton, Iowa, around 10 miles away from Monticello.

Deputy Menard’s Actions Deemed Justified

According to Police Chief Smith, Deputy Matt Menard, who encountered Russell in Hopkinton, attempted to detain him but Russell refused to comply. In response to the threat posed by Russell, Menard made the decision to shoot.

Delaware County Attorney John Bernau, after reviewing the incident, stated, “When considering the entirety of the incident, Deputy Menard’s actions in shooting Russell were reasonable and legally justified under Iowa law. As a result, he will not face any criminal charges.”

Deputy Menard, a respected law enforcement veteran with 25 years of experience, including 14 years with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, acted in accordance with his training and in the best interest of public safety, as concluded by Bernau.

The tragic incident has left the community of Monticello in shock and mourning. The loss of Aaron McAtee, a beloved member of the Fareway Meat and Grocery store team, has deeply affected the residents of this close-knit town. The support and condolences from the community have been pouring in for the McAtee family and his colleagues.

The investigation into the motive behind this senseless act of violence is still ongoing. Law enforcement authorities are working diligently to gather all necessary evidence and ensure that justice is served.

The Monticello community, known for its resilience, is coming together to support one another during this difficult time. The loss of Aaron McAtee serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the need to address and prevent acts of violence.

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