POLK COUNTY, IA (IRN) – Jester Park Nature Center in Polk County is considering hiring security after several tense confrontations over masks. County officials at Jester Park do require visitors to wear masks inside the nature center — compliant with Polk County’s decision to require masks in their buildings. They say most people don’t cause any issues, but recently, a handful of visitors have argued with staff and volunteers.

ANKENY, IA (IRN) – A man who was shot in the face in Ankeny Tuesday has died. Police say 21-year-old Eli Reed passed away Wednesday. Reed was injured in a shooting at the Ankeny apartment he shared with friend 24-year-old John Peak. Peak was drunk and handling a loaded gun when the shooting happened. Reed was struck in the face by the bullet. Peak will be charged with involuntary manslaughter.

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA (IRN) – One person is dead after a shooting in Cedar Rapids on Thursday. Police responded to reports of a shooting, and found the dead man lying in the street. Investigators say it appears it was a targeted incident.

LINN COUNTY, IA (IRN) – Cedar Rapids and Swisher Firefighters rescued a man trapped in a corn silo at a farm in rural Linn County on Wednesday. They successfully freed the man using specialized panels to isolate him and then remove the grain that was trapping him.

DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – After months of planning, a USL Championship pro soccer team will kick off in central Iowa starting in 2024. Krause Group and USL made the announcement on Thursday night at the Greater Des Moines Partnership Dinner. The team’s name will be chosen with help from the community.