Solon teen charged with attempted murder in burglary, shooting

A Solon teen has been charged with attempted murder after Iowa City police say he shot an apartment resident during an attempted burglary last night in Iowa City.

Dakota Lee Williams, 18, of 103 E Fifth St., Solon, also was charged with burglary in the first degree and going armed with intent for the Iowa City incident. The Johnson County Sheriff's Office also charged Williams with five counts of burglary to a motor vehicle and interference with official acts for incidents later Thursday night in Solon.

Iowa City Police say at 8:27 p.m. last night, Williams, wielding a handgun, forced his way into the apartment at 906 N Dodge St. No. 3, while pointing a handgun at the victim, a 27-year-old male. Iowa City Police declined to release the victim's name.

The victim had answered a knock at his door to find Williams, dressed in black with a bandana across his face, holding a handgun, according to police. Williams pointed the gun at the victim and demanded money, police said. The victim resisted and a struggle ensued. During the struggle Williams put the gun to the victim's head and told him he was going to shoot him if he did not give up the money, police said. As the two struggled, the gun discharged and the victim was shot in both of his hands.

Williams fled, leaving the gun at the scene, according to police. The Iowa City Police K-9, Becky, tracked Williams to where police believe he got into a vehicle and drove away.

The victim was taken by ambulance to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, according to police. He was still at the hospital this morning, Iowa City police said.

The victim told police he believed the man was someone he knew. Police and cooperating individuals identified the man as Williams. While checking a location in Solon where Williams was believed to be, Iowa City Police and Johnson County Sheriff's deputies found Williams actively breaking into breaking vehicles. He was taken into custody.

Williams is being held in Johnson County Jail on a $782,500 cash-only bond. He made an initial court appearance this morning.

A copy of the criminal complaint in the case:

Dakota Williams criminal complaint -- first degree murder