Two adults were arrested, and two juveniles were detained on Wednesday night following a reported firearm incident on the grounds of West Sioux High School in Hawarden.
The incident happened around 8:25 p.m. on Wednesday while West Sioux was hosting a postseason soccer match and a baseball game, with large crowds gathered on the school campus.
Suspect Allegedly Carrying Firearm
According to the Hawarden Police Department, officers responded after receiving a report of an individual suspected of possessing a firearm on school property. An officer arriving at the scene observed three males running south across the school parking lot toward 12th Street. After confirming with a school official that the individuals were connected to the reported incident, the officer attempted to stop them, but authorities say the group ignored verbal commands and continued fleeing.
Police say the three individuals were later found hiding in shrubs in the 1100 block of Thunderbird Drive. One individual allegedly fled again on foot before officers eventually apprehended him.
Authorities identified one of the suspects as 19-year-old Kaiden Keshon Ewing of Sioux City. According to the complaint and affidavit filed in Sioux County District Court, Ewing was allegedly seen carrying a black bag that officers later recovered. Police say the bag contained a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9-millimeter pistol with one round chambered and another round in the magazine.
Court documents state that Ewing is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction or adjudication.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Ewing has been charged with:
•Carrying weapons on school grounds — Class D felony
•Control of a firearm or offensive weapon by a felon — Class D felony
•Interference with official acts — simple misdemeanor
If convicted on both felony charges, Ewing could face up to 10 years in prison under Iowa law.
Authorities also arrested 18-year-old Marcos Hernandez of Le Mars. Hernandez is charged with interference with official acts after authorities say he fled from officers and ignored commands to stop.
According to jail records, Ewing was later released after posting a $5,000 cash or surety bond through a bondsman. Hernandez was released on his own recognizance.
Police say two juveniles connected to the incident were released to a parent or guardian, and referrals to juvenile court are pending.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Hawarden Police Department says the investigation remains ongoing. Agencies assisting included the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, Rock Valley Police Department, Sioux Center Police Department, Orange City Police Department, Iowa State Patrol, and the West Sioux Community School District.
A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
