The Iowa Department of Public Safety has released the identity of the Iowa Falls man shot and killed by police Thursday. A news release from DPS says officers were called to the residence of 25-year-old Leighton Fitz around 1:20 on the report that Fitz was suicidal.
The DPS release says Fitz came out of the residence with several weapons and wearing a bullet-proof vest. Two Iowa Falls police officers and 3 from DPS fired at Fitz after he refused to drop his weapon. Officers found multiple loaded guns and a gas mask inside the home. Agents also discovered threats against the officers posted on Fitz’s Facebook page.
Fitz’s body has been sent to the state medical examiner for an autopsy. DPS says it won’t release any other information until the investigation is complete. The 5 officers involved in the shooting are on administrative leave during the investigation.