Man Pleads Guilty in 2020 Cedar Rapids Shooting Death

Table of Contents

Legal Proceedings and Charges

A man from Fort Madison has entered a guilty plea for lesser charges related to a shooting that occurred in Cedar Rapids in May 2020. The incident resulted in the death of a 69-year-old man during an attempted burglary at his home.

Damontie Haggstrom-Wells faced multiple charges as part of the legal process. On Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, attempted burglary in the third degree, going armed with intent, and willful injury causing serious injury. These charges were connected to the events that took place on May 22, 2020, when Daniel Spangler was shot and killed at his residence on the 500 block of B Ave NW.

The tragic event began when police received a request for a welfare check just before 10:00 am on that day. Upon arrival, they discovered Spangler dead on the floor. An autopsy confirmed that he had suffered a gunshot wound, and the cause of death was determined to be homicide.

Additional Charges and Legal Context

In addition to the charges related to Spangler's death, Haggstrom-Wells also faces charges connected to a burglary that occurred on May 21, 2020, in the 300 block of Jacolyn Drive SW. This indicates that the individual was involved in multiple criminal activities during that time period.

The case highlights the seriousness of the charges and the impact of the actions taken by Haggstrom-Wells. Voluntary manslaughter is a significant charge, typically involving a situation where a person kills another in the heat of passion or under provocation. Attempted burglary in the third degree suggests that the individual was attempting to commit a crime without success, while going armed with intent implies that he was carrying a weapon with the intention of committing a crime.

Willful injury causing serious injury further emphasizes the severity of the harm inflicted upon the victim. These charges collectively paint a picture of a complex and troubling incident that has led to the loss of a life and the subsequent legal consequences for the accused.

Upcoming Sentencing

Haggstrom-Wells is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on February 27 at the Linn County Courthouse. This date will mark a critical moment in the legal proceedings, as the court will determine the appropriate punishment for the crimes committed.

The sentencing hearing will provide an opportunity for the court to consider the circumstances of the case, including the nature of the charges, the impact on the victim's family, and any mitigating factors that may be presented by the defense. It is expected that the court will take into account the severity of the offenses and the potential for rehabilitation.

As the community awaits the outcome of the sentencing, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and the need for accountability in cases involving violence and criminal behavior. The legal system plays a crucial role in ensuring that those who commit crimes are held responsible for their actions, and that victims and their families receive the support and closure they deserve.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and the judicial system to address criminal activity and protect the safety of the community. The resolution of this case will have lasting implications for all parties involved and will contribute to the broader conversation about justice, accountability, and the rule of law.