Iowa City man accused of burglary, shooting person over property damage

An Iowa City man is accused of burglary and other charges after a witness identified him as the individual who forced his way into a residence Wednesday and shot the person once over a property damage dispute, authorities said.

Eldra Jennings Jr., 26, is charged with first-degree burglary, dominion/control of firearm, going armed with intent, willful injury causing bodily injury — all felonies — and assault while displaying a dangerous weapon, an aggravated misdemeanor.

According to a criminal complaint, the resident, who wasn’t identified, was treated Wednesday for a gunshot injury at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Through an investigation, officers learned Jennings forced his way into the victim’s home to confront the victim about property damage.

During the argument, Jennings pulled a gun and fired once, striking the victim, a witness told police, the complaint stated. Officers also found a fired cartridge casing and projectile inside the victim’s residence.

Jennings has previous felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms, according to the complaint.

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