Two hurt in weekend assault with clubs, crowbars in Cedar Rapids

Two people were beaten with clubs, crowbars and fists in a skirmish Saturday, but police later arrested one of the victims.

Earl McDanniel, 37, and Brenda Evans, 35, both of Cedar Rapids, told police they were driving in the 1100 block of Eighth Street NW just after 11 p.m. when someone threw something at their car. According to the police report, they got out and were beaten up by multiple people clubs and crowbars.

They were able to get back in their car and leave, but they told police they were followed by the suspects who assaulted them. They claimed one suspects fired a gun in the air during the chase, but investigating officers did not find anyone else who heard the shot.

Sgt. Cristy Hamblin said McDanniel and Evans were both intoxicated when police arrived. They had injuries from the assault, she said, and were transported to St. Luke's Hospital, where they were treated and released.

While they were at the hospital, McDanniel became upset and threatened officers and staff, police said. He was arrested and charged with public intoxication.

“He was nice when he was a victim, but when he was being treated, he became belligerent,” Hamblin said.

Police have not arrested any of the assailants. An investigation is continuing.