CRPD arrests man after multiple shots fired near downtown Westdale

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Cedar Rapids police arrested a man Wednesday after multiple shots were fired near downtown Westdale around 12:45 p.m

Cedar Rapids police have now identified the man as Anthony Pennell, 26, of Cedar Rapids.

Pennell is currently in the Linn County Jail facing multiple charges including:

• Intimidation with a weapon
• Felon in possession of a firearm
• Use of a weapon in the commission of a crime
• Person who is not authorized to carry dangerous weapons
• Be armed with purpose
• Interference with official acts
• Assault on a peace officer
• Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree

A News Now Iowa team on scene saw officers with K9 units walking around Pet Smart, Ross and Michaels.

According to police, no injuries were reported and Pennell attempted to escape before police caught him. Investigators told News Now early Wednesday afternoon in Iowa that they planned to look at surveillance video at nearby stores to confirm what happened.

Many businesses in the area had to close briefly for safety reasons.