Ottumwa Shooting Today: Suspect Arrested After Fatal Evergreen Street Incident in Iowa
Authorities in Ottumwa, Iowa, are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred early Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026, at a residence on Evergreen Street, according to Lt. Jason Bell.
What Happened in Ottumwa
At approximately 5:35 a.m., the Ottumwa Police Department received a 911 call reporting that a man had been shot at 333 Evergreen. Officers, alongside the Wapello County Sheriff’s Department, responded to the scene and discovered 45-year-old Jeremy Ray Showalter suffering from a gunshot wound.
Showalter was transported to Ottumwa Regional Health Center for emergency treatment but later died from his injuries.
Investigation and Arrest
Due to the severity of the case, agents and crime scene technicians from the Iowa Department of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation were called in to assist with evidence processing and investigative support. Tactical units from the Iowa State Patrol also assisted in the search for the suspect.
By 4:22 p.m. the same day, police arrested 24-year-old Michael Joe Johnson of Sigourney, Iowa. He has been charged with:
- Murder in the First Degree (Class A Felony)
- Burglary in the First Degree (Class B Felony)
Ongoing Investigation
Officials confirmed that although an arrest has been made, the investigation remains active. Authorities are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Ottumwa Police Department.
Law enforcement also emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Legal Reminder
Officials noted that, in accordance with Supreme Court guidance, a criminal charge is only an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This remains a developing case as investigators continue to review evidence surrounding the fatal Ottumwa shooting.