Teen Faces Multiple Firearms Charges After Incident at Convenience Store

Feb 17, 2025 at 5:47 PM

A troubling incident occurred in Cedar Rapids, where a teenager is now facing serious legal consequences. Law enforcement reports indicate that on Sunday, outside a convenience store in the southeastern part of the city, an individual discharged a firearm toward a vehicle. The authorities have identified the suspect as Donovan Metzger, a 17-year-old resident of Cedar Rapids, who has been charged with multiple offenses related to weapon use.

The charges against Metzger include intimidation with a dangerous weapon, utilizing a weapon during the commission of a crime, possession of a weapon by a minor, carrying a weapon without eligibility, and reckless discharge of a firearm. Surveillance footage from the convenience store captured Metzger discharging a firearm at an occupied vehicle, with bystanders present. No injuries were reported, but police found two shell casings at the scene. Metzger made his first court appearance on Monday and was held under a $10,000 cash-only bail.

This incident underscores the critical importance of responsible behavior and adherence to laws regarding firearms. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with improper handling of weapons and the severe legal ramifications that can follow. Communities must remain vigilant and promote safe practices to prevent such occurrences and ensure public safety.